What is the Average Weight For Women?

As diet culture and misconceptions around “ideal” female weights persist, providing evidence-based targets for a healthy weight remains important. However, generalized recommendations often fail to account for factors like age, height and body composition. This article examines data and guidelines published by health organizations on recommended weights for women according to factors like height and frame size. By taking a closer look at the evidence behind “average” and healthy weights for diverse groups of women, we hope to promote positive body image and wellbeing.

Average Weight For Women

While giving a single “average weight” for men worldwide can be misleading due to variations, here are some insights:

U.S. Averages

The average weight for adult women in the United States is 170.8 pounds. The average height is approximately 5 feet 4 inches. The waist circumference is 38.6 inches, and the BMI falls within the overweight range at 29.2.

Average Weight for a 5’4″ Female

For females with a height of 5 feet 4 inches, the average weight is 170.8 pounds. This falls within the overweight range based on the BMI calculation.

Global Averages

Across the globe, the average weight for women varies based on country and other factors. Here are some examples of average weights for women in specific countries:

Country	Average male weight	Average female weight	Sample population age range	Methodology	Year	Source
United States	87.0 kg (191.8 lb)	71.8 kg (158.3 lb)	18	Measured	2018	Source
Australia	87.0 kg (191.8 lb)	71.8 kg (158.3 lb)	18	Measured	2018	Source
Brazil	72.7 kg (160.3 lb)	62.5 kg (137.8 lb)	20-74	Measured	2008-2009	Source
Bangladesh	55.2 kg (121.7 lb)	49.8 kg (109.8 lb)	25	Measured	2009-2010	Source
Algeria	68.7 kg (151.5 lb)	65.1 kg (143.5 lb)	25-64	Measured	2005	Source

These figures highlight how weight can vary across different regions and populations. As a woman, understanding average weight values can provide insights into health trends and norms.

Average Weight for Girls

The average weight for girls varies significantly as they grow and develop, influenced by factors like height, genetics, and puberty stages. Here’s a general guide to average weights for girls at different ages, acknowledging that there’s a wide range of healthy weights depending on individual factors:

Infants:

• Birth: The average weight for a newborn girl is approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kilograms), though anywhere between 5.1 pounds (2.3 kilograms) and 9.7 pounds (4.4 kilograms) is considered normal.
• 6 months: By this age, many infants have doubled their birth weight, with an average around 16 pounds (7.3 kilograms).

Childhood:

• 1 year: The average weight for a 1-year-old girl is about 21 pounds (9.5 kilograms).
• 2 years: Girls typically weigh around 28 pounds (12.7 kilograms) by their second birthday.
• 5 years: The average weight for a 5-year-old girl is approximately 40 pounds (18.1 kilograms).
• 10 years: Around this age, the average weight is about 70.5 pounds (32 kilograms).

Adolescence:

The teenage years bring significant physical changes, including increased height and weight due to puberty.

• 12 years: The average weight for a 12-year-old girl is around 91 pounds (41.2 kilograms).
• 14 years: By age 14, the average weight increases to about 105 pounds (47.6 kilograms).
• 16 years: The average weight for a 16-year-old girl is approximately 115 pounds (52.2 kilograms).
• 18 years: At 18, the average weight is around 125 pounds (56.7 kilograms).

Factors Influencing Average Weight For Women:

The average weight for women is influenced by a variety of factors, ranging from biological to environmental. Understanding these factors can help in assessing health risks and making informed decisions about diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Here are some key factors that influence the average weight for women:

1. Genetics: Genetic predispositions play a crucial role in determining body shape, size, and weight. They can influence metabolism, fat storage patterns, and the predisposition to certain body types.

2. Age: As women age, their metabolism tends to slow down, and body composition may shift, leading to changes in weight. Muscle mass typically decreases with age, while fat storage may increase.

3. Height: Taller women naturally weigh more due to having a larger frame and potentially more muscle mass. Weight ranges are often related to height, which is why Body Mass Index (BMI) charts consider both factors.

4. Diet and Nutrition: The quality and quantity of food consumed play a significant role in determining weight. Diets high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can lead to weight gain, while balanced diets support maintaining a healthy weight.

5. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity helps in maintaining muscle mass, boosting metabolism, and burning calories, all of which contribute to regulating weight.

6. Hormonal Factors: Women experience various hormonal changes throughout their lives, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, which can affect appetite, fat distribution, and overall weight.

7. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and sleep patterns can influence weight. For example, high stress and poor sleep may lead to weight gain for some individuals.

8. Health Conditions: Certain health conditions and medications can affect weight. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and depression, as well as medications like steroids, can influence weight gain or loss.

9. Socioeconomic Factors: Economic status can affect access to healthy foods, leisure time for exercise, and overall lifestyle choices, which in turn can influence weight.

10. Cultural and Societal Influences: Cultural norms and societal pressures regarding body image can impact dieting behaviors and lifestyle choices, affecting average weight.

11. Pregnancy and Childbirth: Pregnancy leads to weight gain, which is necessary for fetal development. The weight gained during pregnancy and how much of it is retained postpartum can affect a woman’s average weight.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much should a 13-year-old girl weigh?

At the age of 13, girls typically weigh between 34.4 kg to 54.3 kg according to the CDC.

What factors influence a 14-year-old girl’s weight?

Height, genetics, and body frame are major factors affecting a girl’s weight at the age of 14.

Why is maintaining a healthy weight essential for teenage girls?

It is crucial for overall well-being, proper growth, and development during adolescence.

Why is embracing body changes important for teenage girls?

To foster a positive body image and instill healthy habits for lifelong wellness.