BMI Result: 5ft 8in, 242 lbs (BMI 36.8) - Female
According to CDC and WHO standards, a BMI of 36.8 is classified as Obese.
A female who is 5ft 8in tall and weighs 242lbs has a BMI of 36.8, which falls into the Obese category used by the CDC and WHO for adults.
| Category | BMI Range |
|---|---|
| Underweight | < 18.5 |
| Obese | ≥ 30 |
| Obese | ≥ 30 |
Healthy weight range for 5ft 8in: 122 lbs – 164 lbs
Metric: 172.7 cm, 109.8 kg
📏 Healthy waist circumference for your height: 30" – 35" (below 35" for female)
So you're 5ft 8in and weigh 242lbs. Your BMI is 36.8, which falls into the Obese category according to CDC and WHO standards. Let's break down what this means for your health.
Adjust Your Numbers
Change your height or weight to see how your BMI changes.
Understanding Your BMI
A BMI of 30 or above indicates obesity. The CDC reports that this range is associated with a 50-60% higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Comprehensive lifestyle intervention and medical guidance are strongly recommended.
What This Means for Your Height
For women of average height, BMI is a reliable screening tool. Pair it with waist circumference for a more complete health picture.
Weight & Threshold
Gaining approximately 21.0 lbs would bring your BMI to 40, the start of the next category.
⬇️ Losing approximately 44.7 lbs would bring you to the Overweight BMI threshold.
Waist & Health
The CDC recommends that non-pregnant women keep waist circumference below 35 inches. A waist-to-height ratio below 0.5 is also associated with lower health risks.
Age Context
For adults 65 and older, BMI targets shift. Clinical guidelines (ESPEN, NIH) often recommend a slightly higher BMI range (around 23–26) for seniors to protect against bone loss and muscle decline. At 69 years old, a woman at 5ft 8in and 242lbs has a BMI of 36.8.
Your BMI of 36.8 falls into the Obese category. At age 69, doctors often focus more on mobility, waist size, and functional ability than BMI alone.
👉 Use our Senior BMI Calculator for age-stratified recommendations.
👉 Check our Asian BMI Calculator for ethnicity-specific guidelines (if applicable).
Health Analysis
Recommendations
General Health
A BMI of 36.8 is in the obesity range defined by the CDC and WHO. This range is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Comprehensive lifestyle intervention and medical guidance are strongly recommended.
Monitoring
In addition to BMI, pay attention to waist circumference. The CDC recommends females stay under 35 inches. Regular tracking of your measurements over time provides the most useful insight into your health trends.
Next Steps
If you're concerned about your weight or body composition, a healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance based on your full health profile.
Personalized Notes
Health Risks
With a BMI of 36.8 for a 5ft 8in woman, the obesity range is associated with a 50-60% higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Comprehensive lifestyle intervention and medical guidance are strongly recommended.
Physical Activity
For a woman at 5ft 8in, start with low-impact activities like swimming or stationary cycling to protect your joints while building stamina. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I at a healthy weight at 5ft 8in and 242lbs?
What else should I track besides BMI for a 5ft 8in woman?
How does a BMI of 36.8 affect health for a 5ft 8in woman?
What is the BMI for a 5ft 8in woman at 242lbs?
Related Tools & Articles
💡 About this calculation: BMI = (242 × 703) ÷ (68 × 68) = 36.8 | Metric: 172.7 cm, 109.8 kg
📖 Recommended reading:
Editorial Review: This page was generated by the BMI Calculator Web Editorial Team and reviewed at template and content-pool level for accuracy and guideline alignment by Dr. Sarah K. Johnson, PhD, RD. All content is aligned with current WHO, CDC, and NIH guidelines.
Published: 2026-08-18