Estimate your ideal weight range using four established formulas — Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi — all in one tool.
Ideal body weight formulas are population-level estimates. They do not account for muscle mass, body frame, ethnicity, or individual health factors. A healthy weight range is more useful than a single number. Consult a healthcare professional.
Ideal body weight (IBW) is a clinical concept that estimates a healthy weight based on a person's height and sex. Several formulas have been developed over the decades, each using slightly different approaches. While none is perfect, they provide a useful reference point when combined with other health metrics.
It is important to understand that "ideal" weight is a statistical estimate, not a mandate. A healthy weight is a range, not a single number, and it depends on many individual factors that these formulas cannot capture — including muscle mass, bone structure, age, and genetics.
The most commonly used formula, originally developed for calculating medication doses. For men: 50 + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet. For women: 45.5 + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet.
A modification of the Devine formula based on updated population data. Generally produces slightly higher estimates for women and lower for men. For men: 52 + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet. For women: 49 + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet.
Tends to give the highest ideal weight among the four formulas. For men: 56.2 + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet. For women: 53.1 + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet.
The oldest of the four, developed by Dr. G.J. Hamwi. For men: 48 + 2.7 kg per inch over 5 feet. For women: 45.5 + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet.
All ideal body weight formulas share significant limitations. They are based solely on height and sex, ignoring muscle mass, body frame size, age, and ethnicity — all of which substantially affect what constitutes a healthy weight. A person with a larger skeletal frame or greater muscle mass may be perfectly healthy at a weight well above their calculated "ideal."
These formulas were also developed using data from specific populations (primarily white American adults in the mid-20th century) and may not apply equally to all demographics. For a more complete picture, consider using IBW alongside BMI, WHtR, body fat percentage, and lean body mass.
No single formula is definitively most accurate. The Devine formula is most widely used clinically. Using the average of all four gives the most balanced estimate.
Not exactly. IBW is a single number estimate; healthy weight is a range depending on muscle mass, bone density, age, and body composition. A healthy BMI range or WHtR below 0.5 may be more practical.
Each was developed using different populations and methods across different decades. Differences are typically 2–5 kg.
Not well — they don't account for muscle mass. Athletes often exceed their calculated IBW while in excellent health. Body fat % or lean body mass measurements are more appropriate.