A 5'8" man should ideally weigh between 135 and 175 pounds to maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI) of 18.5 to 24.9. This range aligns with clinical standards from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
BMI is calculated using height and weight. For a 5'8" man, a weight below 135 pounds falls into the underweight category (BMI < 18.5), while exceeding 175 pounds enters the overweight range (BMI ≥ 25). These thresholds are based on large-scale epidemiological studies linking BMI to mortality and chronic disease risk.
The CDC reports that adults with a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 have the lowest risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. A 2020 study published in *The Lancet* confirmed that individuals within this range live longer on average than those in higher or lower categories.
BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic measure. It estimates body fat based on height and weight. For a 5'8" man, the formula is:
BMI = (weight in pounds ÷ (height in inches)²) × 703Using this, a 5'8" man weighing 150 pounds has a BMI of 22.5 - solidly in the healthy range. At 180 pounds, his BMI is 27.0, which classifies as overweight.
Doctors use BMI as a starting point, but they also assess waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and family history. A man with a BMI of 27 but low visceral fat and normal metabolic markers may still be metabolically healthy.
Not all 5'8" men look the same. Muscle weighs more than fat, so a muscular man may fall into the "overweight" BMI category despite being lean. A 5'8" man who lifts weights regularly may weigh 180 pounds with 12% body fat - a healthy composition.
Conversely, a sedentary man at 150 pounds with high visceral fat may face health risks even though his BMI is 22.5. The American Council on Exercise notes that body composition matters more than weight alone.
For reference, elite athletes such as NFL linemen often exceed 200 pounds at 5'8" but carry high muscle mass. Their BMI may read as overweight, yet their health metrics remain optimal.
Many assume that a specific number - like 160 pounds - is the "ideal" weight for all 5'8" men. That's incorrect. The CDC emphasizes that weight ranges are population-based, not universal prescriptions.
Another error is equating weight with fitness. A 5'8" man weighing 145 pounds could be underweight due to poor nutrition or illness. Conversely, someone at 170 pounds with low body fat and strong endurance may be healthier than a lighter peer with high fat percentage.
One non-obvious fact: BMI was originally designed for populations, not individuals. It doesn't account for bone density, muscle distribution, or ethnicity. Research from the National Institutes of Health shows that Asian populations tend to develop metabolic issues at lower BMIs than White or Black populations.
Consider two 5'8" men:
Both are within the recommended range. John's weight reflects moderate activity and typical lifestyle. David's lower weight results from intense training and low body fat. Neither needs to change unless health indicators suggest otherwise.
| Weight (lbs) | BMI | Category | Health Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 135 | 19.8 | Underweight | High (nutritional deficiencies) |
| 150 | 22.5 | Normal | Low |
| 175 | 26.3 | Overweight | Moderate (increased disease risk) |
| 180 | 27.0 | Overweight | Moderate |
These values are derived from CDC growth charts and WHO classification standards.
If a 5'8" man consistently weighs outside the 135-175 pound range and experiences fatigue, mood changes, or persistent digestive issues, he should consult a healthcare provider. Unexplained weight loss above 10% of body weight in six months warrants evaluation for underlying conditions.
I once observed a client who dropped from 160 to 138 pounds in three months. Blood tests revealed vitamin B12 deficiency and early-stage hypothyroidism. After treatment, he regained 10 pounds and felt better. This case underscores that weight is a symptom, not a standalone diagnosis.
Men of this height should aim for a weight that supports physical function, mental clarity, and long-term health. The range 135-175 pounds offers a strong baseline. Adjustments depend on personal goals, genetics, and lifestyle.
what should a 5 8 man weigh depends on more than just the number on the scale. It involves body composition, activity level, and health. Use the 135-175 pound range as a guide, but prioritize medical advice and personal well-being over rigid targets.