⚖️ Ideal Weight Calculator
Find your ideal body weight using 4 validated medical formulas: Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi. Compare results and find your healthy weight range.
About the Ideal Weight Formulas
These four formulas were developed by medical researchers to estimate ideal body weight (IBW) based on height and gender. Each uses a base weight for 5 feet (60 inches / 152.4 cm) and adds weight per inch above that.
Formulas for Men
| Formula | Equation (weight in kg) |
|---|---|
| Devine (1974) | 50.0 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60) |
| Robinson (1983) | 52.0 + 1.9 × (height in inches − 60) |
| Miller (1983) | 56.2 + 1.41 × (height in inches − 60) |
| Hamwi (1964) | 48.0 + 2.7 × (height in inches − 60) |
Formulas for Women
| Formula | Equation (weight in kg) |
|---|---|
| Devine (1974) | 45.5 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60) |
| Robinson (1983) | 49.0 + 1.7 × (height in inches − 60) |
| Miller (1983) | 53.1 + 1.36 × (height in inches − 60) |
| Hamwi (1964) | 45.5 + 2.2 × (height in inches − 60) |
Limitations
- These formulas were developed using data primarily from Caucasian populations
- They don't account for muscle mass, bone density, or body frame size
- Athletes and muscular individuals will often exceed the "ideal" weight while being healthy
- Use these as a general reference, not a medical diagnosis
- Body fat percentage, waist circumference, and overall health markers are more meaningful than a single weight number
Frequently Asked Questions
No single formula is universally most accurate. The Devine formula is most commonly used in clinical settings (especially for drug dosing). For general health purposes, look at the average of all four formulas for a balanced estimate.
No. These formulas don't account for muscle mass or body composition. A muscular person may weigh significantly more than the "ideal" weight while being perfectly healthy. Use body fat percentage as a better metric.
Each formula was developed using different population data and methodologies. Devine (1974) was originally for drug dosing. Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi were developed for dietary and clinical use with different datasets and assumptions.
These formulas provide a general reference point, not a strict target. A healthy weight range is typically within 10% of the average ideal weight. Focus on overall health markers rather than just a number on the scale.
A healthy BMI is typically 18.5-24.9. The ideal weight range from these formulas generally corresponds to BMI 20-25. However, BMI has limitations and doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass.
All formulas use a base weight for 5 feet (152 cm) and add a specific amount per additional inch. The increase ranges from 1.36 kg/inch (Miller for women) to 2.7 kg/inch (Hamwi for men).