Body weight and health

Hi,
I have a question about my body health and strength.

Here are my stats:
Male, age 27, 5'10", 155 lbs.
I am 13.5 percent body fat.

I think I have a small frame because when I wrap my fingers around my wrist, my thumb overlaps my middle finger's nail.

I also had a men's health physical last semester at my college and the doctor said, "He has a healthy look" as far as my body shape. I have low cholesterol and blood pressure and I also have plenty of energy.

Over the past few years, I have become self-conscious about my weight because some people (mostly girls) have called me skinny. I am also in a martial art that is similar to wrestling (Brazillian Jiu Jitsu) and my instructor has suggested that I lift weights to gain more strength.

From these 2 situations I have a dilemma.

I feel healthy and I don't think I need to build extra muscle for women or wrestling when I'm already a healthy weight. I also don't believe in taking weight gainer shakes, since I read that they can throw your body's chemistry off balance.  

1. My question is how do I know if I'm strong enough for my height and weight. Someone told me I should be able to bench press my own weight, which I honestly haven't done yet. I can bench press about 100 to 110. I also work out 2-3 times a week with weights or wrestling and I eat about 2,300 calories a day.I also take a multi-vitamin. I have plenty of energy, but I don't seem to lose or gain weight. My body seems to like 155 lbs.
I also understand that in athletics, people can hurt their bodies by either trying to put on muscle or becoming anorexic. Can you please let me know if I'm healthy enough? Thanks.
  

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There is no objective measure of how strong you should be.  For instance, there is no "right" amount you should be able to benchpress.

However, there an optimal weight for your height.  This is known as the body mass index (BMI).  The BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women.

You can calculate your BMI here:
http://nhlbisupport.com/bmi/bmicalc.htm

Here are the interpretation of the results.  
Underweight = <18.5
Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
Overweight = 25-29.9
Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater

Generally, a BMI of less than 25 is desirable.  

As for whether you are healthy enough - that cannot be evaluated without actually examining you.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[giraffe7983]

My BMI ended up being 22.2. Looks like I'm a healthy weight. Thanks for your help.

[chey101]

mine turned out to be 24.8, i'm a 21 year old female. do u think i should be concerned about becoming over weight? i just had a baby 8.5 months ago and he was my second child.
should i be concerned?

[giraffe7983]

This is my personal opinon, but it seems that your weight is fine. As long as you exercise and eat well, you should be able to maintain a healthy weight.

[chey101]

thank-you for the reassurence .
chey

[giraffe7983]

No problem