Ideal Weight Calculator
Calculate your ideal body weight using medically-proven formulas
Enter your current weight to see how it compares to your ideal weight
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Robinson Formula (1983) - Most commonly used by healthcare professionals
Enter your details to calculate your ideal weight
How It Works
What is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is an estimated weight range considered healthy for a person based primarily on their height, gender, and age. Unlike simple weight measurements, IBW calculations attempt to provide a target weight that's associated with optimal health outcomes and reduced risk of weight-related health conditions.
It's important to understand that "ideal weight" is a guideline, not an absolute rule. Factors like muscle mass, bone density, body composition, and individual health conditions can make healthy weights vary significantly between people of the same height.
Available Calculation Formulas
Our calculator offers five scientifically validated formulas, each developed by medical researchers using different methodologies and study populations:
Robinson Formula (1983)
One of the most widely used modern formulas. Modified from the Devine formula with updated coefficients for better accuracy across diverse populations.
Female: 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
Miller Formula (1983)
Developed around the same time as Robinson, using a different approach to height-weight relationships. Often provides slightly different results.
Female: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet
Devine Formula (1974)
The classic formula originally created for drug dosage calculations but widely adopted for ideal weight estimation. Still used in many clinical settings today.
Female: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
Hamwi Formula (1964)
One of the oldest formulas still in use. Simple and quick, making it popular for rapid clinical assessments. Tends to give higher estimates than newer formulas.
Female: 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet
Healthy BMI Range
Uses the World Health Organization's healthy BMI range (18.5-24.9) to calculate a weight range for your height. Provides a range rather than a single number.
Understanding the Results
When you calculate your ideal weight, you'll see:
- •Individual Formula Results: Each formula provides its own estimate, which may vary by several kilograms
- •Average Estimate: The mean of all formula results, providing a balanced estimate
- •Healthy Weight Range: Based on BMI 18.5-24.9, showing the full spectrum of healthy weights for your height
- •Current Weight Comparison: How your current weight relates to the calculated ideal range
Why Multiple Formulas?
Different formulas exist because:
- •Different Study Populations: Each was developed using different demographic groups
- •Different Time Periods: Understanding of healthy weights has evolved over decades
- •Different Purposes: Some were designed for clinical use, others for general population health
- •Range Awareness: Seeing multiple estimates helps you understand that "ideal" is a range, not a single number
Important Considerations
These formulas have limitations and may not be accurate for:
- •Athletes & Bodybuilders: High muscle mass can make healthy individuals appear "overweight"
- •Elderly Individuals: Body composition changes with age; formulas may need adjustment
- •Children & Adolescents: These formulas are designed for adults only
- •Very Short or Tall Individuals: Formulas may be less accurate at height extremes
- •Different Ethnic Backgrounds: Body composition can vary by ethnicity
Using Your Results Wisely
Your ideal weight calculation should be used as:
- •A General Guide: Not an absolute target you must achieve
- •Starting Point for Discussion: Share results with your healthcare provider for personalized advice
- •Part of Overall Health: Consider alongside body fat percentage, fitness level, and overall wellbeing
- •Realistic Goals: Focus on achieving a healthy weight within the range, not an exact number
Important Note: Ideal weight is just one aspect of health. Body composition (muscle vs. fat), cardiovascular fitness, metabolic health markers, and overall wellbeing are equally or more important than the number on the scale. A person who exercises regularly, eats nutritiously, and feels energetic may be at their personal ideal weight even if it differs from these calculations. Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized weight management guidance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do different formulas give different results?
Each formula was developed in different contexts and populations. Robinson (1983) is commonly used in clinical settings, Devine (1974) for pharmaceutical dosing, Miller (1983) for athletes, and Hamwi (1964) is simpler and older. The variation shows there's no single "perfect" weight - healthy weight is a range, not a precise number.
What if I'm very muscular or have a large frame?
These formulas assume average body composition and frame size. Athletes, bodybuilders, or people with larger frames may naturally weigh more than these estimates while being perfectly healthy. Focus on body composition (muscle-to-fat ratio) and health markers rather than a single number on the scale.
Is ideal weight the same as healthy weight?
Not necessarily. "Ideal weight" from formulas is a statistical estimate, while "healthy weight" considers your individual health markers (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar), body composition, energy levels, and overall well-being. You can be healthy at weights above or below formula estimates.
How should I use these results?
Use these estimates as general guidelines, not strict targets. Look at the range across all formulas to understand your healthy weight zone. Focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, body composition improvements, and health metrics rather than hitting a specific number. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.
Is my data saved or shared?
No! All calculations occur in your browser. We don't collect, store, or share any information. See our Privacy Policy for details.
Cooking & Kitchen Tools
For recipe conversions and cooking measurements, visit CookConvert for ingredient conversions, and plan macro-friendly meals with MacroMeals.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides ideal weight estimates for informational purposes only. These formulas are general guidelines and may not account for individual factors such as muscle mass, bone density, or health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized weight management advice. Not intended as medical advice or for diagnostic purposes.