Ideal Weight Calculator
Calculate your ideal body weight using multiple scientific formulas
Your Information
Your Ideal Weight Range
Multiple Formulas
What is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is an estimated optimal weight range for a person based on their height, gender, and body frame. Multiple scientific formulas have been developed to calculate IBW, each using slightly different approaches. Our calculator shows results from four respected formulas to give you a comprehensive range.
Ideal Weight Formulas
Robinson Formula (1983)
Men: 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
Miller Formula (1983)
Men: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet
Devine Formula (1974)
Men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
Hamwi Formula (1964)
Men: 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet
Body Frame Considerations
Body frame size affects ideal weight. People with larger frames naturally weigh more than those with smaller frames at the same height. Add 10% to ideal weight for large frames, subtract 10% for small frames.
Determining Your Frame Size
Wrap your thumb and middle finger around your wrist. If they overlap easily, you have a small frame. If they just touch, medium frame. If they don't touch, large frame. Alternatively, measure wrist circumference - smaller measurements indicate smaller frames.
Healthy Weight vs. Ideal Weight
Remember that "ideal" weight is just an estimate. A healthy weight depends on many factors including muscle mass, bone density, overall health, and fitness level. Athletes and muscular individuals may weigh more than "ideal" while being very healthy. Use BMI (18.5-24.9) and body composition as additional guides.
Reaching Your Ideal Weight
For Weight Loss
- Create a 500-calorie daily deficit for 0.5 kg / 1 lb loss per week
- Prioritize protein (1.6-2.2g per kg) to preserve muscle
- Strength train 3-4 times weekly
- Focus on whole, minimally processed foods
- Stay hydrated and get 7-9 hours of sleep
For Weight Gain
- Create a 300-500 calorie daily surplus
- Eat protein-rich foods at every meal
- Progressive resistance training to build muscle
- Eat calorie-dense healthy foods: nuts, avocados, whole grains
- Have 4-6 smaller meals throughout the day
Beyond the Number on the Scale
Don't obsess over hitting an exact number. Focus on health markers: energy levels, fitness, strength, blood pressure, cholesterol, and how you feel. Body composition (muscle vs. fat) matters more than total weight. Someone at "ideal weight" with low muscle mass may be less healthy than someone slightly above ideal weight with good muscle tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do different formulas give different results?
Each formula was developed using different population samples and methodologies. This is why we show multiple results - your healthy weight is likely somewhere in this range rather than one specific number.
Are these formulas accurate for athletes?
Not always. Athletes with significant muscle mass may be above "ideal" weight but have low body fat and excellent health. Body composition analysis is more relevant for athletic populations.
Does age affect ideal weight?
These formulas don't account for age, but some research suggests slightly higher BMI (23-27) in older adults may be associated with better health outcomes and longevity. Maintaining muscle mass becomes increasingly important with age.
Should children use this calculator?
No. Children and adolescents should use pediatric growth charts that account for age and developmental stage. Consult pediatricians for healthy weight ranges for children.