Ideal Weight Calculator
Calculate your ideal body weight using multiple scientific formulas. Get personalized weight targets based on your height, age, gender, and body frame size.
On This Page
Calculate Your Ideal Weight
Frame size affects your ideal weight range by ±10%
Enter your height to calculate ideal weight
Ready to achieve your ideal weight?
Your Ideal Weight Results
Use your calculated ideal weight range as a guide for setting healthy weight goals. Remember that ideal weight is just one tool - overall health includes fitness, nutrition, and well-being.
Understanding Ideal Weight
What is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is a scientifically-based estimate of the optimal weight for an individual based on height, gender, and body frame. Unlike BMI, IBW formulas provide more personalized weight targets by considering gender differences and skeletal structure variations.
Medical Applications: IBW is widely used in clinical settings for medication dosing, nutritional assessments, and setting realistic weight goals for patients.
The Science Behind IBW Formulas
Devine Formula (1974)
- • Most widely used in clinical practice
- • Standard for medication dosing calculations
- • Men: 50kg + 2.3kg per inch > 5 feet
- • Women: 45.5kg + 2.3kg per inch > 5 feet
Robinson Formula (1983)
- • Modified approach for improved accuracy
- • Often used in nutritional assessments
- • Men: 52kg + 1.9kg per inch > 5 feet
- • Women: 49kg + 1.7kg per inch > 5 feet
Why Body Frame Matters
Body frame size accounts for skeletal structure differences between individuals. People with larger frames have bigger bones and can naturally carry more weight. Frame adjustments (typically ±10%) provide more accurate and personalized ideal weight ranges.
Frame Size Categories:
Practical Tips for Reaching Your Ideal Weight
Setting Realistic Weight Goals
✓ Healthy Approach
- • Use IBW as a range, not a fixed target
- • Consider your body frame size
- • Focus on gradual, sustainable changes
- • Combine multiple health metrics (BMI, body fat %)
- • Consult healthcare providers for personalized advice
✗ Common Mistakes
- • Treating IBW as an absolute number
- • Ignoring muscle mass and body composition
- • Extreme calorie restriction to reach IBW quickly
- • Comparing your IBW to others
- • Using only one formula without context
Weight Management Strategies
Nutrition Focus
- • Balanced macronutrient ratios
- • Adequate protein intake
- • Mindful portion control
- • Regular meal timing
Exercise Planning
- • Combine cardio and strength training
- • Progressive overload principles
- • Consistency over intensity
- • Recovery and rest days
Lifestyle Factors
- • Adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
- • Stress management techniques
- • Hydration maintenance
- • Regular health monitoring
Progress Tracking Methods
Recommended Tracking Metrics:
- • Weekly weight measurements (same time/conditions)
- • Body measurements (waist, hips, chest)
- • Progress photos (monthly)
- • Fitness performance metrics
- • Energy levels and mood tracking
- • Sleep quality assessments
- • Strength and endurance improvements
- • Health markers (blood pressure, etc.)
Complete Guide to Ideal Weight Calculation
Comparison of IBW Formulas
| Formula | Year | Men | Women | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Devine | 1974 | 50 + 2.3(height - 60) | 45.5 + 2.3(height - 60) | Medical dosing, clinical use |
| Robinson | 1983 | 52 + 1.9(height - 60) | 49 + 1.7(height - 60) | Nutritional assessments |
| Miller | 1983 | 56.2 + 1.41(height - 60) | 53.1 + 1.36(height - 60) | General population studies |
| Hamwi | 1964 | 48 + 2.7(height - 60) | 45.5 + 2.2(height - 60) | Quick clinical estimates |
*Height is measured in inches above 5 feet (60 inches). Results in kg.
Special Populations and Considerations
Age-Related Adjustments
Young Adults (18-30): Standard IBW formulas apply well
Middle Age (30-65): May need slight upward adjustment for muscle mass
Older Adults (65+): Higher weights may be associated with better outcomes
Athletic Populations
Endurance Athletes: May be below IBW due to low body fat
Strength Athletes: Often exceed IBW due to muscle mass
Team Sports: Position-specific weight considerations apply
Clinical Applications and Limitations
Important Limitations to Consider:
- • IBW formulas don't account for muscle mass or body composition
- • Significant variability (up to 19%) exists between different formulas
- • Not applicable to individuals under 5 feet tall
- • May not be appropriate for all ethnic populations
- • Should be used as a guide, not an absolute target
- • Always consider overall health status and individual circumstances
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ideal Body Weight (IBW)?
What is the difference between IBW and BMI?
Why does body frame size matter for ideal weight?
How accurate are the different IBW formulas?
Which IBW formula should I use?
Educational Videos & Learning Resources
Professional Medical Resources
NIH Weight Management
National Institute of Health comprehensive weight management guidelines
View NIH Guidelines →Mayo Clinic Weight Resources
Evidence-based weight management information from Mayo Clinic
View Mayo Resources →Harvard Health Weight Guide
Harvard Medical School's approach to healthy weight management
View Harvard Guide →WHO Weight Guidelines
World Health Organization global standards for healthy weight
View WHO Standards →Academic Institution Resources
Nutrition Science Programs
Medical School Resources
Professional Organization Guidelines
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
Exercise and weight management position statements
View ACSM Guidelines →Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Evidence-based nutrition practice guidelines for weight management
View Nutrition Guidelines →Mobile Apps & Digital Tools
📚 Scientific References & Resources
1. Variability in Ideal Body Weight Formulae (2024)
Recent research highlighting the significant differences between various IBW formulas and their clinical implications.
2. Devine Formula for IBW (1974)
The original publication by Dr. B.J. Devine, establishing the most widely used formula for IBW in clinical practice.
3. Robinson Formula for IBW (1983)
The study by Robinson et al. proposing a modified formula to improve upon the Devine calculations.
4. Hamwi Method for IBW (1964)
The foundational work by G.J. Hamwi that introduced a quick and simple method for estimating ideal body weight.
Important Disclaimers & Safety
Medical Consultation: This ideal weight calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for personalized medical guidance.
Individual Variations: Ideal weight calculations are estimates based on population averages. Individual factors such as muscle mass, bone density, medical conditions, and overall health status can significantly affect what constitutes a healthy weight for you specifically.
Not for Everyone: These formulas may not be appropriate for children, pregnant women, athletes with high muscle mass, or individuals with certain medical conditions. Professional assessment is recommended for special populations.
Health Beyond Weight: Remember that health encompasses much more than just weight. Focus on overall wellness including nutrition quality, physical activity, mental health, and other lifestyle factors.