BMI of 23 — What does it mean?
Instant answer: A BMI of 23 is classified as normal weight.
This range corresponds to the lowest statistical risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome in long-term cohort studies.
Weight examples that give a BMI of 23
| Height | Weight (kg) | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 160 cm (5'3") | 58.9 | 130 |
| 165 cm (5'5") | 62.6 | 138 |
| 170 cm (5'7") | 66.5 | 147 |
| 175 cm (5'9") | 70.4 | 155 |
| 180 cm (5'11") | 74.5 | 164 |
| 185 cm (6'1") | 78.7 | 174 |
Practical next steps
- Adult activity guidance is at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.
- Two strength sessions a week is the standard recommendation for preserving lean mass with age.
- Waist circumference thresholds are sex-specific: 94 cm for men and 80 cm for women (WHO, 2008), derived mainly from European-origin populations.
- Routine metabolic bloodwork is a general adult health measure, unrelated to BMI category.
Frequently asked questions
What does a BMI of 23 mean?
A BMI of 23 falls into the normal weight category as defined by the World Health Organization. This range corresponds to the lowest statistical risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome in long-term cohort studies.
Is a BMI of 23 healthy?
Yes — this BMI is within the WHO healthy range (18.5–24.9).
What weight gives a BMI of 23 at 170 cm?
At 170 cm, a BMI of 23 corresponds to roughly 66.5 kg.