Ideal Weight Calculator – What Is Your Ideal Body Weight?

Discover your ideal weight range with our free calculator. Based on your height and gender, we apply multiple scientific formulas to give you a healthy target weight.

Gender

Unit System

Height (cm)

How to Use This Ideal Weight Calculator

Select your gender

Choose male or female. Formulas account for typical body composition differences between genders.

Choose your unit system

Select metric (centimeters) or imperial (inches) for height input based on your preference.

Enter your height and calculate

Input your height and click Calculate. Results show ideal weight from four established formulas.

Ideal Weight Formulas Compared

Formula	Year	Male Base	Female Base	Per Inch Over 5ft
Devine	1974	50 kg	45.5 kg	2.3 kg
Robinson	1983	52 kg	49 kg	1.9 kg (M) / 1.7 kg (F)
Miller	1983	56.2 kg	53.1 kg	1.41 kg (M) / 1.36 kg (F)
Hamwi	1964	48 kg	45.5 kg	2.7 kg (M) / 2.2 kg (F)

These formulas estimate ideal body weight for adults of average build. They do not account for muscle mass, bone density, or body composition.

Understanding Ideal Weight Calculations

What Is Ideal Body Weight?

Ideal body weight (IBW) estimates a healthy weight based on height. It originated from life insurance data linking weight to longevity. IBW helps doctors dose medications and assess nutritional status. It is a reference point, not a strict target.

Why Multiple Formulas?

Different formulas were developed for different purposes. Devine is widely used for medical dosing. Hamwi is common in nutrition counseling. Robinson and Miller came from analyses of large populations. Each gives slightly different results — the average provides a reasonable range.

Limitations of IBW Formulas

These formulas assume average body composition. They do not distinguish muscle from fat. Athletes may weigh more than IBW due to muscle mass. Older adults may have lower muscle mass at the same weight. Frame size also matters — small frames weigh less than large frames at the same height.

IBW vs BMI

BMI uses weight and height to classify underweight, normal, overweight, and obese. IBW gives a specific target weight. Both have limitations. BMI does not account for muscle mass or fat distribution. IBW does not account for age or body composition. Use both as screening tools, not diagnoses.

Tips for Healthy Weight Management

Focus on habits, not just the scale

Eat mostly whole foods, move your body daily, sleep 7-9 hours, and manage stress. Weight often follows naturally.

Build muscle through strength training

Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat. Strength training 2-3 times per week improves body composition even if the scale does not change much.

Prioritize protein and fiber

Protein keeps you full and preserves muscle during weight loss. Fiber from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains supports digestion and satiety.

Be patient with progress

Healthy weight loss is 0.5-1 kg (1-2 lbs) per week. Faster loss often means muscle loss and rebound gain. Consistency beats intensity over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which ideal weight formula is most accurate?

No single formula is best for everyone. Devine is most cited in medical literature. Robinson and Miller may be more accurate for modern populations. Using the average of all four gives a reasonable range. For individual advice, consult a healthcare provider.

Does ideal weight account for age?

No, these formulas do not include age. Some research suggests slightly higher weights may be healthy for older adults. Body composition changes with age — muscle decreases and fat increases even at stable weight.

What if I am very muscular?

Ideal weight formulas will underestimate your healthy weight if you have high muscle mass. Athletes and bodybuilders often exceed IBW while being very lean. Body fat percentage or waist circumference may be better health indicators for muscular individuals.

How do I know my frame size?

Wrap your thumb and middle finger around your wrist. If they overlap, you have a small frame. If they touch, medium frame. If they do not touch, large frame. Large frames may healthily weigh 10% more than IBW; small frames 10% less.

Should I use ideal weight or BMI?

Both have uses. BMI screens for weight categories linked to health risks. IBW gives a specific target. For most people, a weight within the normal BMI range (18.5-24.9) that feels sustainable is appropriate. Discuss personal targets with a doctor or dietitian.

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