Ideal Weight Calculator

1. Select Metric (cm) or Imperial (ft/in) units.
2. Choose your gender.
3. Enter your height.
4. View ideal weight estimates from four different medical formulas.
5. See the average ideal weight across all formulas.
6. Compare results in the formula comparison table.
7. Check the BMI-based healthy weight range for reference.

What is an Ideal Weight Calculator?

An ideal weight calculator estimates a healthy target body weight based on your height and gender. Several well-known formulas have been developed since the 1960s, each producing slightly different results. These formulas were originally created for clinical purposes, including medication dosage calculations and nutritional assessments, where a standardized body weight reference was needed. While no single formula can define a universally "ideal" weight for every individual, they provide useful reference points when combined with other health indicators. This calculator shows results from four established formulas side by side, along with a BMI-based healthy weight range, so you can compare and find a reasonable target.

How the Formulas Work

All four formulas use a base weight for a height of 5 feet (60 inches) and add a fixed amount for each additional inch of height. The base weight and per-inch increment differ by gender and by formula.

Devine (1974): Men: 50 + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet. Women: 45.5 + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet. This is the most commonly referenced formula in medical literature and clinical practice.

Robinson (1983): Men: 52 + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet. Women: 49 + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet. A modification of the Devine formula that is frequently used for medication dosing calculations.

Miller (1983): Men: 56.2 + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet. Women: 53.1 + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet. This formula produces higher estimates and may be more suitable for individuals with larger frames.

Hamwi (1964): Men: 48.1 + 2.72 kg per inch over 5 feet. Women: 45.4 + 2.27 kg per inch over 5 feet. One of the earliest formulas, sometimes adjusted by plus or minus 10% to account for large or small body frames.

Common Use Cases

• Setting a realistic goal weight when starting a weight loss or fitness program
• Calculating medication dosages in clinical and pharmacy settings
• Establishing nutritional baselines for dietitian consultations
• Comparing different medical formulas to understand the range of "ideal" estimates
• Using alongside BMI and body fat percentage for a well-rounded health assessment
• Identifying whether current weight falls within a clinically accepted healthy range

Limitations and Important Context

Ideal weight formulas have significant limitations that are important to understand. They do not account for body composition, meaning a muscular athlete may exceed their calculated "ideal weight" while being in excellent health. They also do not consider age, ethnicity, bone density, or individual body frame size. The formulas were developed using data from specific populations and time periods, so they may not be equally applicable to everyone.

For a more comprehensive picture, consider using these results alongside your BMI and body fat percentage rather than treating any single number as a definitive target. The BMI-based healthy weight range (corresponding to a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9) is generally considered the most evidence-backed reference, as it is derived from large-scale health outcome data. Individual health depends on many factors beyond weight alone, including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, fitness level, and mental well-being. Always consult a healthcare professional before setting weight goals, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.

Related Health Tools

Check your current weight classification with the BMI Calculator, measure your body composition with the Body Fat Calculator, or plan your nutrition with the Calorie Calculator and Macro Calculator.