Ideal Weight Calculator

What is Ideal Body Weight?

Ideal body weight (IBW) is a theoretical weight that is associated with the lowest risk of health problems for a given height and gender. Several formulas have been developed over the years by different researchers, each giving slightly different results. No single formula is considered definitively correct, which is why this calculator shows results from four widely-used methods so you can see the range of estimated ideal weights.

How to Use This Calculator

Select your gender, choose your preferred height input mode (centimetres or feet and inches), enter your height, and click "Calculate Ideal Weight". The calculator will instantly display your ideal body weight according to four formulas: Devine, Robinson, Miller and Hamwi. It also shows the healthy weight range based on a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9.

Formulas Used

All formulas use height in inches. For a person whose height in inches is H:

Devine Formula (1974): Men: 50 + 2.3 x (H - 60) kg; Women: 45.5 + 2.3 x (H - 60) kg

Robinson Formula (1983): Men: 52 + 1.9 x (H - 60) kg; Women: 49 + 1.7 x (H - 60) kg

Miller Formula (1983): Men: 56.2 + 1.41 x (H - 60) kg; Women: 53.1 + 1.36 x (H - 60) kg

Hamwi Formula (1964): Men: 48 + 2.7 x (H - 60) kg; Women: 45.4 + 2.2 x (H - 60) kg

The healthy BMI weight range is calculated as: Weight = BMI x (Height in metres)^2, using BMI values of 18.5 and 24.9.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which ideal weight formula is the most accurate?

No single formula is universally the most accurate. The Devine formula is the most widely used in clinical settings, particularly for drug dosage calculations. The best approach is to look at the range from all four formulas and also consider the healthy BMI weight range.

Is ideal body weight the same as healthy weight?

Not exactly. Ideal body weight formulas provide a single number estimate, while a healthy weight is typically expressed as a range (such as the BMI 18.5 to 24.9 range). Factors like muscle mass, bone density, body composition, and age also play a role in determining a truly healthy weight for an individual.

Do these formulas work for very tall or very short people?

These formulas were designed for adults of average height ranges (roughly 150 cm to 195 cm). For people significantly outside this range, the results may be less reliable. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for personalised guidance.