How the Ideal Weight Calculator works
This calculator uses four medically validated formulas and averages them to give a robust estimate of your ideal body weight.
| Formula | Men (base + per inch) | Women (base + per inch) |
|---|
| Devine (1974) | 50 kg + 2.3 kg/inch | 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg/inch |
| Robinson (1983) | 52 kg + 1.9 kg/inch | 49 kg + 1.7 kg/inch |
| Miller (1983) | 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg/inch | 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg/inch |
| Hamwi (1964) | 48 kg + 2.7 kg/inch | 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg/inch |
All formulas calculate based on height above 5 feet (152 cm). The BMI range (18.5–24.9) healthy weight range is also shown for reference.
Body frame adjustment
People with larger bone frames can carry more weight healthily. The calculator adjusts ±5% based on your selected frame size.
How to use your results
The average of the four formulas is your best estimate of ideal weight. The healthy BMI range (18.5–24.9) gives you a wider window that accounts for body composition variation.
If you're above your ideal weight, use the Weight Loss Calculator to see how long it will take to reach your goal. If you're below, the Weight Gain Calculator can help you plan.
Remember: ideal weight formulas were developed for medical dosing purposes, not body image goals. A healthy weight is one where your body fat is in a healthy range and you feel energetic and strong.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate are ideal weight formulas?
These formulas are estimates developed for clinical settings (medication dosing). They don't account for muscle mass, body fat distribution, or ethnicity. The healthy BMI range (18.5–24.9) is a broader but equally valid reference.
What is my ideal weight for my height?
Use the calculator above to get your personalised result. As a general guide: for a 175cm man, ideal weight is approximately 68–76 kg. For a 165cm woman, approximately 55–65 kg.
Is BMI or ideal weight formula more accurate?
Neither is perfect. BMI is simpler but ignores body composition. Ideal weight formulas give a single number target. Body fat percentage is the most meaningful measure of health.
How do I reach my ideal weight?
If above ideal weight: create a 500 kcal/day calorie deficit. If below: eat 300–500 kcal above maintenance with high protein and resistance training. Use the TDEE calculator to find your maintenance calories.
Does ideal weight change with age?
The formulas don't change with age, but health organisations note that slightly higher weight (BMI 23–27) may be protective for adults over 65, reducing osteoporosis and frailty risk.
What is the difference between ideal weight and healthy weight?
Ideal weight is a single target from formulas. Healthy weight is a range (BMI 18.5–24.9). You can be healthy anywhere within the healthy weight range — there's no single 'perfect' weight.
Is ideal weight the same as goal weight?
Not necessarily. Your personal goal weight should factor in how you feel, your body composition, and your fitness level — not just a formula number. Athletes often weigh more than formula ideal weight due to muscle mass.
How long to reach ideal weight from being overweight?
At a 500 kcal/day deficit (0.5 kg/week), losing 10 kg takes approximately 20 weeks. Use the Weight Loss Calculator for a personalised timeline.
Related free calculators