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Ideal Weight Calculator

Find your ideal body weight range based on height, gender, and frame size using multiple formulas.

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About These Formulas

Ideal body weight (IBW) formulas were originally developed for medical dosage calculations. They provide estimates based on height and gender but don't account for:

  • Muscle mass and body composition
  • Age and bone density
  • Ethnic and genetic variations
  • Individual health conditions

The BMI-based healthy range is generally considered more reliable. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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How to Use This Calculator

  1. Choose between US Units (pounds/feet/inches) or Metric (kg/cm)
  2. Select your biological gender
  3. Enter your height (feet and inches for US, cm for metric)
  4. Click 'Calculate Ideal Weight' to see results
  5. Review the healthy BMI-based weight range (most reliable)
  6. Compare results from four different medical formulas
  7. See the average of all formulas for a middle estimate
  8. Remember these are estimates - consider your body composition and health

Formula

Robinson: Male = 52kg + 1.9kg per inch over 5 feet; Female = 49kg + 1.7kg per inch over 5 feet; Miller: Male = 56.2kg + 1.41kg per inch over 5 feet; Female = 53.1kg + 1.36kg per inch over 5 feet; Devine: Male = 50kg + 2.3kg per inch over 5 feet; Female = 45.5kg + 2.3kg per inch over 5 feet; Hamwi: Male = 48kg + 2.7kg per inch over 5 feet; Female = 45.5kg + 2.2kg per inch over 5 feet; BMI Range: Weight for BMI 18.5-24.9

Frequently Asked Questions

Which ideal weight formula is most accurate?▼
The Robinson formula (1983) is most commonly used in modern practice. However, the BMI-based healthy weight range (18.5-24.9) is generally considered more reliable as it provides a range rather than a single number and is based on extensive population health data.
Why do different formulas give different results?▼
Each formula was developed for different purposes and populations. Devine and Hamwi were created for drug dosing calculations. Robinson and Miller aimed to update these for modern populations. Differences of 5-15 pounds between formulas are normal.
Do these formulas account for muscle mass?▼
No, these formulas only use height and gender. They don't account for body composition, muscle mass, bone density, age, or ethnicity. Athletes and very muscular individuals may have an 'ideal weight' above these estimates.
Should I aim for the ideal weight shown?▼
Use these as rough guidelines, not strict targets. The healthy BMI range is more useful. Your ideal weight depends on body composition, health markers, fitness level, and how you feel. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
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