The perfect weight is an ideal many strive for, but not everyone is able to reach. Children, as well as adults, battle weight gain more so than ever before, because they know that being overweight can cause severe medical problems such as heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, diabetes and more.

Losing weight is not easy, even with the help of calorie food counters, exercise calorie counters, meal planners, a tailored exercise plan, etc. There are so many things to consider, it is often confusing and makes you wonder where to start.

The first thing anyone who wants to lose weight needs to do is get familiar with a weight chart (see below). Weight charts are easy to read as all you need to know is your height and what kind of build you have.

To find out what your ideal weight is, go down the height list of the chart – there is a difference between men and women. You will find your ideal weight in the column representing your particular body build. There is no set number, because bone density and weight varies by person and has to be taken into consideration.

Not everyone has a rational idea about what their ideal weight should be, and working with a weight chart will keep any weight goals realistic.

General weight charts should only be used as a guideline. They do not incorporate age or race/ethnic group, factors that my influence the end result and weight objective. Children have their own set of charts.

Anyone in need of a more precise weight objective, ideal Body Mass Index (BMI) measurements, a fitness plan or any other diet advice should consult a physician or dietician. These experienced professionals can tailor a diet plan to your body type, and also help monitor your progress and warn you about health problems from extreme dieting, or deceitful diets. As we all know, not all weight loss plans produce long-term and lasting success.