What are the different ideal weight formulas?

This calculator uses four well-known formulas: Devine (1974) is the most commonly used in medical settings. Robinson (1983) is a modification of Devine used for drug dosage calculations. Miller (1983) tends to give slightly higher ideal weights. Hamwi (1964) is one of the oldest formulas. All are based on height and gender. A BMI-based healthy range is also shown for reference.

Which ideal weight formula is most accurate?

No single formula is universally 'most accurate' because ideal weight depends on many individual factors including bone structure, muscle mass, and body composition. The Devine formula is the most widely used in clinical practice. Using the average of all four formulas provides a reasonable estimate. The BMI-based healthy range (18.5-24.9) offers the broadest scientifically-backed reference.

Does ideal weight differ for men and women?

Yes, all ideal weight formulas use different calculations for men and women. Men typically have higher ideal weights than women of the same height because men generally have more muscle mass and denser bones. The base weights and per-inch increments differ by gender in each formula.

How accurate are ideal weight calculators?

Ideal weight formulas provide general estimates and have significant limitations. They do not account for body composition (muscle vs. fat), age, ethnicity, or individual body frame size. A muscular athlete may exceed their 'ideal weight' while being perfectly healthy. These formulas are best used as rough guidelines rather than strict targets.

What is the ideal weight for my height?

Ideal weight varies by height, gender, and formula used. As a quick reference for average height adults: a 5'4" woman's ideal weight ranges from about 108-138 lbs across formulas, and a 5'10" man's ideal weight ranges from about 149-174 lbs. Enter your specific height into the calculator above for personalized results from all four formulas.

Should I use ideal weight or BMI to set my target weight?

Both can be useful as starting references. Ideal weight formulas give a single target number, while BMI provides a healthy range (18.5-24.9). The BMI healthy range is generally more flexible and evidence-based. For a more complete picture, also consider your body fat percentage, waist circumference, and overall health markers rather than relying solely on any single metric.

Ideal Weight Calculator Online - Free Tool | CalcHive

Ideal Weight Formulas Explained

Several formulas have been developed over the decades to estimate ideal body weight based on height and gender. These were originally created for medical purposes such as drug dosage calculations and nutritional assessments.

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.

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 used frequently for medication dosing.

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 appropriate for larger-framed individuals.

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 with plus/minus 10% for large/small frames.

Ideal Weight Calculator

How to Use Ideal Weight Calculator

Ideal Weight Formulas Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Tools