Critical Weight what does critical weight mean? Critical weight is the minimum weight a person needs to be for their body to maintain a minimal level of health. Critical weight may not be enough for a female to menstruate or to participate in exercise. Generally, critical weight (90% of ideal body weight) is the minimum the average person needs to maintain a minimum level of health. Therefore, clearly at 85% or below (which is criteria for Anorexia), person’s physiological health is compromised… If someone is, 75% of his or her Ideal body weight then hospitalization is usually necessary.