What is ideal body weight?

Ideal body weight (IBW) is an estimated weight range considered healthy for a given height and gender. Several medical formulas exist to calculate IBW, including the Hamwi, Devine, Robinson, and Miller equations. These formulas were originally developed for drug dosing but are now widely used as general health references.

Which ideal weight formula is most accurate?

No single formula is universally the most accurate because ideal weight depends on factors like body composition, bone density, and muscle mass. The Devine formula is the most commonly used in clinical settings. Comparing results from multiple formulas gives you a reasonable range to aim for.

How does BMI relate to ideal weight?

BMI (Body Mass Index) provides a weight range based on your height. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. This calculator shows the weight range corresponding to a healthy BMI alongside the formula-based ideal weights, giving you a broader perspective on your target weight.

Can ideal weight calculators account for muscle mass?

No, standard ideal weight formulas do not account for muscle mass, bone structure, or body fat percentage. Athletes and individuals with high muscle mass may weigh more than their calculated ideal weight while still being perfectly healthy. Consider using a body fat percentage measurement for a more complete picture.

Ideal Weight Calculator

Unit System

Height (cm)

Gender

Hamwi Formula

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Devine Formula

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Robinson Formula

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Miller Formula

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Healthy BMI Range (18.5–24.9)

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How the Ideal Weight Calculator Works

This ideal weight calculator estimates your target body weight using four well-known medical formulas developed over several decades. Each formula uses your height and gender to produce a slightly different estimate, reflecting the fact that there is no single "perfect" weight for any given height.

The Hamwi formula (1964) starts with a base weight for the first 5 feet and adds a fixed amount per additional inch. The Devine formula (1974) is widely used in clinical pharmacology for drug dosing based on lean body mass. The Robinson formula (1983) and Miller formula (1983) offer updated estimates that tend to be slightly lower for taller individuals.

In addition to these formula-based estimates, the calculator shows the weight range that corresponds to a healthy BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. This provides a broader perspective since BMI accounts for the natural variation in healthy weights. Rather than fixating on a single number, consider using the range across all formulas as a guideline. Factors such as muscle mass, bone density, age, and overall fitness level all influence what weight is truly healthiest for you as an individual. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Ideal Weight Formulas Comparison (5'10" / 178 cm Example)

Formula	Year	Male Result	Female Result	Method
Hamwi	1964	166 lb (75.3 kg)	155 lb (70.3 kg)	Base + per-inch increment from 5 ft
Devine	1974	166 lb (75.3 kg)	149 lb (67.6 kg)	Widely used in pharmacology
Robinson	1983	160 lb (72.6 kg)	147 lb (66.7 kg)	Revised Devine with updated data
Miller	1983	157 lb (71.2 kg)	150 lb (68.0 kg)	Lower estimates for taller people
Healthy BMI Range	-	129-174 lb (58.5-79.0 kg)	129-174 lb (58.5-79.0 kg)	BMI 18.5-24.9 range

Results vary by formula. Use the range across methods as a guideline rather than any single number.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before making health or dietary decisions.

Ideal Weight Calculator

How the Ideal Weight Calculator Works

Ideal Weight Formulas Comparison (5'10" / 178 cm Example)

Frequently Asked Questions

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