Ideal Weight Calculator
About Ideal Weight
Ideal Weight Calculator Overview
Our Ideal Weight Calculator estimates your ideal body weight based on your height, gender, and different formulas. This information can be used to help you set realistic fitness goals.
Why Calculate Ideal Weight?
Ideal weight calculations provide a general guideline for a healthy weight range based on your height and gender. It can be a useful starting point for setting fitness goals and assessing your overall health.
Ideal Weight Calculation Formulas
This calculator uses several different formulas to estimate ideal weight:
Robinson (1983)
A formula developed by J.D. Robinson that takes into account gender differences.
- For men: IBW = 52 kg + 1.9 kg for each inch over 5 feet
- For women: IBW = 49 kg + 1.7 kg for each inch over 5 feet
Miller (1983)
Developed by Dr. D.R. Miller, this formula is often considered more accurate for taller individuals.
- For men: IBW = 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg for each inch over 5 feet
- For women: IBW = 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg for each inch over 5 feet
Devine (1974)
Created by Dr. B.J. Devine, this formula is commonly used in clinical settings for medication dosing.
- For men: IBW = 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet
- For women: IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet
Hamwi (1964)
Developed by Dr. G.J. Hamwi, this is one of the earliest formulas for ideal weight calculation.
- For men: IBW = 48 kg + 2.7 kg for each inch over 5 feet
- For women: IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg for each inch over 5 feet
Important Considerations
Ideal weight calculations are estimates and may not accurately reflect individual health needs. Factors such as body composition, muscle mass, and overall health should be considered.
Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
How to Use the Ideal Weight Calculator
1Enter Your Information
- Select your gender (male or female)
- Enter your height in feet and inches, or centimeters
- Optionally, enter your current weight for comparison
2Understand the Results
- View your ideal weight according to multiple formulas
- Compare results from Robinson, Miller, Devine, and Hamwi methods
- See your BMI-based healthy weight range
About the Ideal Weight Formulas
Formula | For Men | For Women | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Robinson (1983) | 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet | 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet | More recent formula with updated data |
Miller (1983) | 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet | 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet | Developed alongside Robinson formula |
Devine (1974) | 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet | 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet | Widely used in clinical settings |
Hamwi (1964) | 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch over 5 feet | 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet | One of the earliest formulas developed |
Important to remember
Interpreting Your Results
When reviewing your ideal weight results, keep these points in mind:
- Consider the range, not a single number: The variation between formulas shows that ideal weight is best viewed as a range rather than an exact target.
- BMI-based range: The calculator also shows a healthy weight range based on BMI (18.5-24.9), which is often wider than the formula-based estimates.
- Body composition matters: Two people at the same height and weight can have very different health profiles based on muscle mass, fat distribution, and fitness level.
- Frame size adjustments: People with larger bone structures may naturally weigh more. Some experts suggest adjusting ideal weight by ±10% based on frame size.
Using Ideal Weight for Health Goals
Here are some healthy ways to use your ideal weight calculation:
- Set realistic expectations: Use the range of results to establish reasonable weight goals rather than fixating on a specific number.
- Focus on health markers: Pay attention to blood pressure, cholesterol, energy levels, and other health indicators alongside weight.
- Consider body composition: For fitness goals, tracking body fat percentage and muscle mass may be more valuable than weight alone.
- Consult healthcare providers: For personalized guidance, discuss your results with healthcare professionals who can consider your complete health profile.