Body Weight - What's Normal? / Question
Published: January 17, 2001

Dear TeenHealthFX,

On average what should a 13-year-old female weigh?

Signed: Weight Girl

Dear Weight Girl,

 

TeenHealthFX cannot tell you a specific number that the scale should say.  Weight is more than a number.  It is a combination of age, height, muscle mass and bone structure.

 

At 13, a female is beginning to go through puberty and her body is undergoing physical changes inside and out, like menstruation.  So, it may seem as if we are dodging your question, but it is impossible to accurately predict what a normal weight for you is.

 

If you want a broad range there is a standard by which medical professionals go by.  If you take your height and add 5lbs to 100 for every inch over 5 feet, plus or minus ten percent, you will have an average "guess."

 

This method is not completely accurate and we suggest that you not follow it seriously, as it does not pertain to young teenagers.  Your weight is determined by a number of factors including your genes that you have inherited from your parents.  As long as you eat healthy and exercise regularly  (3-4 times a week), your body will maintain a healthy weight that is right for you!  The most important thing to remember is that regardless of what others around look like, your weight is not a measure of your beauty or worth.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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