Research & data
2026Current U.S. figures for writers, practitioners and curious readers who want a clear, citable snapshot. Last updated October 13, 2026.
What this page covers
These figures describe national populations, not an individual diagnosis or outcome. They are useful for understanding broad patterns around weight and activity, then asking better questions about your own baseline.
Most weight figures here use body mass index, or BMI. BMI is a screening measure, not a direct measurement of body fat or where it is distributed.
Key figures
Each statistic has its own stable link and a direct source, so readers can check the original data.
72.4%
This estimate covers U.S. adults age 20 and older during August 2021 through August 2023. It combines the CDC categories for overweight and obesity.
CDC FastStats: Obesity and Overweight ↗August 2021 to August 2023 data40.3%
Measured height and weight data from the national survey put the age-adjusted prevalence of obesity among U.S. adults age 20 and older at 40.3% in August 2021 through August 2023.
CDC, NCHS Data Brief No. 508 ↗September 20249.4%
In the same national survey period, 9.4% of U.S. adults had severe obesity. The estimate is based on measured height and weight, not self-report.
CDC, NCHS Data Brief No. 508 ↗September 202446.4%
Adults ages 40 to 59 had the highest reported obesity prevalence among the age groups in the CDC analysis for August 2021 through August 2023.
CDC, NCHS Data Brief No. 508 ↗September 202426.4%
In 2024, 26.4% of adults age 18 and older met the national leisure-time aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity guidelines.
Healthy People 2030, PA-05 ↗2024 data150–300 min
Federal guidance calls for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, plus muscle-strengthening activity on at least 2 days each week.
Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans ↗2nd editionMethodology & sources
The page uses national U.S. sources published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Dates beside each source refer to the report or data period, because the newest published report can describe an earlier survey period.
The Body Metric Lab provides educational, non-diagnostic assessments. This page does not replace medical care, diagnosis or treatment.
Cite this page
Suggested citation: The Body Metric Lab. “Body Composition, Weight & Activity Statistics (2026).” Updated October 13, 2026. https://thebodymetriclab.com/body-composition-statistics
Looking for a clearer baseline of your own?
Explore DEXA testing