Understand your healthy weight range based on your height using our intuitive calculator and comprehensive guide.
Ideal Weight Calculator
Enter your height in centimeters.
Male
Female
Select your gender for more accurate calculation.
Average
Small
Large
Estimate your bone structure (small, average, large).
Your Ideal Weight Range
— kg
— kgLower Limit
— kgUpper Limit
—Target BMI
Formula Used (Simplified Devine): For men, Ideal Weight = 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet. For women, Ideal Weight = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet. We adjust slightly for body frame. A common BMI range for healthy weight is 18.5 to 24.9.
Ideal Weight Range vs. Height
This chart illustrates the typical ideal weight range based on varying heights for an average-framed adult.
Ideal Weight Ranges by Height (Average Frame, Male)
Height (cm)
Lower Ideal Weight (kg)
Upper Ideal Weight (kg)
Target BMI Range
Sample weight ranges for an average-framed adult male with different heights.
What is Ideal Weight Calculation?
Calculating your ideal weight according to height is a method used to estimate a healthy weight range for an individual based on their physical stature. It's not about hitting a single magic number, but rather understanding a spectrum of weights that are generally associated with lower health risks. This concept is crucial for health-conscious individuals, those looking to manage their weight, and healthcare professionals assessing a patient's nutritional status. It provides a baseline for discussion and goal setting.
Who should use it? Anyone interested in understanding their weight in relation to their height, including individuals aiming for weight loss or gain, athletes, pregnant women (with medical guidance), and those seeking to improve their overall health and well-being. It's a tool to start a conversation about health, not a definitive diagnosis.
Common misconceptions:
A Single Target Number: Ideal weight is a range, not a fixed point. Factors like muscle mass, bone density, and body composition play significant roles.
One-Size-Fits-All: Formulas are generalizations. Ethnicity, genetics, and specific health conditions can influence what's ideal for an individual.
The Only Health Metric: While important, ideal weight is just one aspect of health. Diet, exercise, sleep, and mental well-being are equally vital.
Ideal Weight Calculation Formula and Mathematical Explanation
Several formulas exist to estimate ideal weight. One of the most recognized is the Devine formula, often adapted for different genders and populations. We'll also consider the Body Mass Index (BMI) as a complementary measure.
The Devine Formula (Common Adaptation)
This formula was developed in 1974 by Dr. B.J. Devine and has been widely used since. It's a linear regression model based on height.
For Men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet (60 inches).
For Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet (60 inches).
Step-by-step derivation:
Convert height to inches: If height is in cm, divide by 2.54 to get inches.
Calculate inches over 5 feet (60 inches).
Multiply this value by 2.3 kg.
Add the base weight (50 kg for men, 45.5 kg for women).
Adjust for body frame: Add or subtract approximately 10% for large or small frames, respectively.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI is another common metric. While not a direct calculation of ideal weight itself, it helps define healthy weight ranges.
Formula: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)²
Healthy Range: Typically 18.5 to 24.9
To find the ideal weight range using BMI, we rearrange the formula:
Lower Ideal Weight (kg) = 18.5 * height (m)²
Upper Ideal Weight (kg) = 24.9 * height (m)²
Our calculator uses a blend of these concepts, providing a range and referencing the target BMI. The Devine formula gives a starting point, and the BMI range refines it.
Variables Table
Variable
Meaning
Unit
Typical Range
Height
Individual's stature
cm or inches
140-200+ cm
Gender
Biological sex
Male/Female
N/A
Body Frame
Bone structure size
Small/Average/Large
N/A
Ideal Weight
Estimated healthy body mass
kg
Varies widely by height
BMI
Body Mass Index
kg/m²
18.5 – 24.9 (Healthy)
Key variables used in ideal weight calculation and their typical values.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Understanding how these calculations apply in practice is key. Here are a couple of scenarios:
Example 1: Sarah, a 30-year-old woman
Height: 165 cm
Gender: Female
Body Frame: Average
Calculation:
Height in inches: 165 cm / 2.54 cm/inch ≈ 64.96 inches
Result Interpretation: Sarah's ideal weight range is approximately 50.2 kg to 67.9 kg, with a center point around 56.9 kg. This provides her with a clear target for weight management goals.
Example 2: Mark, a 45-year-old man
Height: 180 cm
Gender: Male
Body Frame: Large
Calculation:
Height in inches: 180 cm / 2.54 cm/inch ≈ 70.87 inches
Result Interpretation: Mark's estimated ideal weight using Devine's formula adjusted for frame is 82.5 kg. The BMI-derived range is 60.1 kg to 80.7 kg. He might aim for the higher end of the BMI range, around 80 kg, considering his large frame and the Devine estimate.
How to Use This Ideal Weight Calculator
Our calculator is designed for simplicity and ease of use. Follow these steps to get your ideal weight estimate:
Enter Height: Input your height accurately in centimeters into the "Height (cm)" field.
Select Gender: Choose "Male" or "Female" from the dropdown menu. This adjusts the base weight in the formula.
Select Body Frame: Indicate whether your body frame is "Small," "Average," or "Large." This provides a reasonable adjustment for bone density and frame size.
Calculate: Click the "Calculate Ideal Weight" button.
How to read results:
Main Result: The central, brightly colored number represents the estimated ideal weight, often based on the Devine formula with adjustments.
Lower/Upper Limits: These indicate the healthy weight range calculated using the standard BMI (18.5-24.9) for your height.
Target BMI: Shows the midpoint of the healthy BMI range.
Formula Explanation: Provides a brief overview of the calculation method.
Chart & Table: Visualize your ideal weight in context and explore ranges for different heights.
Decision-making guidance: Use this information as a guide. If your current weight falls outside the calculated healthy range, consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you create a personalized plan that considers your unique health profile, lifestyle, and fitness goals. Remember that muscle weighs more than fat, so individuals with high muscle mass might weigh more than their "ideal" calculation suggests but still be very healthy.
Key Factors That Affect Ideal Weight Results
While height and gender are primary inputs, several other factors can influence what constitutes a healthy weight for you:
Body Composition (Muscle Mass): Muscle is denser than fat. A very muscular individual might have a higher weight than the calculated ideal but possess a low body fat percentage, indicating good health. Our calculator doesn't directly measure this, so interpreting results with this in mind is crucial.
Bone Density and Frame Size: Individuals with larger bone structures naturally weigh more. The 'Body Frame' input attempts to account for this, but it's an estimation.
Age: Metabolic rates can change with age. While formulas don't typically adjust for age directly, older adults might have different body composition (less muscle, more fat) even at the same weight and height as a younger person.
Genetics and Ethnicity: Genetic predispositions can influence body shape, size, and metabolism. Certain ethnicities are also associated with different body compositions and risks for weight-related conditions.
Activity Level: Highly active individuals may build more muscle mass, impacting their weight. Their overall health should be assessed based on fitness and body fat percentage, not just weight alone.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like thyroid issues, hormonal imbalances, or certain medications can affect weight regulation. Always consult a doctor if you suspect an underlying medical reason for weight concerns.
Water Retention: Short-term fluctuations due to diet, exercise, or hormonal changes can affect weight temporarily but don't change your fundamental ideal weight range.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most accurate ideal weight formula?
There isn't one single "most accurate" formula, as they are all estimations. The Devine formula, Hamwi formula, Robinson formula, and BMI-based ranges are common. Our calculator uses a blend, referencing Devine and BMI ranges for a comprehensive view.
Can children use this calculator?
This calculator is designed for adults. Children's ideal weights are assessed differently based on growth charts and percentiles, usually by a pediatrician.
What if my current weight is higher than the ideal weight?
It's common. Use the results as a goal. Focus on sustainable lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and regular exercise. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to rule out any underlying health issues.
What if my current weight is lower than the ideal weight?
If you are underweight, it's important to understand why. Consult a healthcare provider to ensure you're getting adequate nutrition and to identify any potential health concerns. They can guide you on healthy weight gain strategies.
How often should I check my ideal weight?
Your ideal weight range doesn't change unless your height changes (which only happens during growth). However, monitoring your weight periodically (e.g., monthly) and paying attention to body composition and how you feel is more important than recalculating your ideal weight itself.
Does BMI calculation include muscle mass?
No, standard BMI calculation does not differentiate between weight from muscle, fat, or bone. This is why very muscular individuals can have a high BMI without being unhealthy. Your ideal weight range from our calculator should be considered alongside body composition.
How does body frame affect ideal weight?
People with larger bone structures generally weigh more than those with smaller frames at the same height. Adjusting for body frame provides a more personalized estimate within the broader healthy range.
Is it better to be at the lower or upper end of the ideal weight range?
Both extremes of the healthy range (BMI 18.5-24.9) are generally considered safe. However, factors like age, activity level, and specific health conditions might make one end more suitable for an individual. Consulting a doctor is best for personalized guidance.
Explore evidence-based approaches to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight for long-term well-being.
var heightInput = document.getElementById("heightCm");
var genderInput = document.getElementById("gender");
var bodyFrameInput = document.getElementById("bodyFrame");
var mainResultDisplay = document.getElementById("mainResult");
var lowWeightDisplay = document.getElementById("lowWeightKg");
var highWeightDisplay = document.getElementById("highWeightKg");
var bmiIdealDisplay = document.getElementById("bmiIdeal");
var weightTableBody = document.getElementById("weightTableBody");
var chart; // Declare chart variable globally
var chartContext; // Declare chart context variable
// Initialize chart context and chart on load
window.onload = function() {
var canvas = document.getElementById("idealWeightChart");
if (canvas) {
chartContext = canvas.getContext("2d");
chart = new Chart(chartContext, {
type: 'line',
data: {
labels: [], // Will be populated based on height range
datasets: [{
label: 'Ideal Weight Lower Limit (kg)',
data: [],
borderColor: '#004a99',
fill: false,
tension: 0.1
}, {
label: 'Ideal Weight Upper Limit (kg)',
data: [],
borderColor: '#28a745',
fill: false,
tension: 0.1
}]
},
options: {
responsive: true,
maintainAspectRatio: false,
scales: {
x: {
title: {
display: true,
text: 'Height (cm)'
}
},
y: {
title: {
display: true,
text: 'Weight (kg)'
},
beginAtZero: false
}
},
plugins: {
legend: {
position: 'top',
},
title: {
display: true,
text: 'Ideal Weight Range vs. Height'
}
}
}
});
}
// Populate table on load
populateWeightTable();
// Trigger initial calculation if inputs have default values
if (heightInput.value || genderInput.value || bodyFrameInput.value) {
calculateIdealWeight();
}
};
function isValidNumber(value) {
return !isNaN(parseFloat(value)) && isFinite(value);
}
function calculateIdealWeight() {
var heightCm = parseFloat(heightInput.value);
var gender = genderInput.value;
var bodyFrame = bodyFrameInput.value;
// Clear previous errors
document.getElementById("heightCmError").textContent = "";
document.getElementById("genderError").textContent = ""; // Gender/frame don't have ranges like height
document.getElementById("bodyFrameError").textContent = "";
// Validation
if (!isValidNumber(heightCm) || heightCm <= 0) {
document.getElementById("heightCmError").textContent = "Please enter a valid height in centimeters.";
resetResultsDisplay();
return;
}
if (heightCm 250) { // Realistic range for adults
document.getElementById("heightCmError").textContent = "Height must be between 100 cm and 250 cm.";
resetResultsDisplay();
return;
}
// Calculations
var heightInches = heightCm / 2.54;
var inchesOver5Feet = heightInches – 60;
var baseWeightKg;
var devineIdealWeightKg;
if (gender === "male") {
baseWeightKg = 50;
} else {
baseWeightKg = 45.5;
}
devineIdealWeightKg = baseWeightKg + (inchesOver5Feet * 2.3);
// Adjust for body frame
var frameAdjustment = 0;
if (bodyFrame === "small") {
frameAdjustment = -0.10; // Subtract 10%
} else if (bodyFrame === "large") {
frameAdjustment = 0.10; // Add 10%
}
// Apply adjustment based on the calculated Devine weight
var adjustedIdealWeightKg = devineIdealWeightKg * (1 + frameAdjustment);
// Calculate BMI-based range
var heightM = heightCm / 100;
var bmiLowerLimit = 18.5;
var bmiUpperLimit = 24.9;
var bmiBasedLowWeightKg = bmiLowerLimit * Math.pow(heightM, 2);
var bmiBasedHighWeightKg = bmiUpperLimit * Math.pow(heightM, 2);
// Determine the final displayed ideal weight – often a midpoint or Devine adjusted
// Let's use the adjusted Devine weight as the primary result and the BMI range for limits
var finalIdealWeightKg = adjustedIdealWeightKg;
// Update display
mainResultDisplay.textContent = finalIdealWeightKg.toFixed(1) + " kg";
lowWeightDisplay.textContent = bmiBasedLowWeightKg.toFixed(1);
highWeightDisplay.textContent = bmiBasedHighWeightKg.toFixed(1);
bmiIdealDisplay.textContent = ((bmiLowerLimit + bmiUpperLimit) / 2).toFixed(1);
// Update chart data
updateChartData(heightCm, bmiBasedLowWeightKg, bmiBasedHighWeightKg);
}
function updateChartData(currentHeight, lowWeight, highWeight) {
if (!chart) return;
var labels = [];
var lowerData = [];
var upperData = [];
// Generate data points for the chart across a range of heights
var startHeight = 140; // Minimum height for chart data
var endHeight = 200; // Maximum height for chart data
var step = 10; // Increment for each data point
for (var h = startHeight; h = startHeight && currentHeight label > currentHeight);
if (insertIndex === -1) insertIndex = labels.length; // append if larger than all
labels.splice(insertIndex, 0, currentHeight);
lowerData.splice(insertIndex, 0, lowWeight.toFixed(1));
upperData.splice(insertIndex, 0, highWeight.toFixed(1));
} else {
// Update existing point if height matches
lowerData[currentIndex] = lowWeight.toFixed(1);
upperData[currentIndex] = highWeight.toFixed(1);
}
}
chart.data.labels = labels;
chart.data.datasets[0].data = lowerData;
chart.data.datasets[1].data = upperData;
chart.update();
}
function populateWeightTable() {
if (!weightTableBody) return;
var tableHtml = "";
var startHeight = 150; // cm
var endHeight = 190; // cm
var step = 5; // cm increment
for (var h = startHeight; h <= endHeight; h += step) {
var h_m = h / 100;
var low = 18.5 * Math.pow(h_m, 2);
var high = 24.9 * Math.pow(h_m, 2);
var avgBmi = ((18.5 + 24.9) / 2).toFixed(1);
tableHtml += "
";
tableHtml += "
" + h + " cm
";
tableHtml += "
" + low.toFixed(1) + " kg
";
tableHtml += "
" + high.toFixed(1) + " kg
";
tableHtml += "
" + avgBmi + "
";
tableHtml += "
";
}
weightTableBody.innerHTML = tableHtml;
}
function resetResultsDisplay() {
mainResultDisplay.textContent = "– kg";
lowWeightDisplay.textContent = "–";
highWeightDisplay.textContent = "–";
bmiIdealDisplay.textContent = "–";
if (chart && chart.data) {
chart.data.labels = [];
chart.data.datasets[0].data = [];
chart.data.datasets[1].data = [];
chart.update();
}
}
function resetCalculator() {
heightInput.value = "175"; // Sensible default height
genderInput.value = "male"; // Sensible default gender
bodyFrameInput.value = "average"; // Sensible default frame
document.getElementById("heightCmError").textContent = "";
document.getElementById("genderError").textContent = "";
document.getElementById("bodyFrameError").textContent = "";
calculateIdealWeight(); // Recalculate with defaults
}
function copyResults() {
var mainResult = mainResultDisplay.textContent;
var lowLimit = lowWeightDisplay.textContent;
var highLimit = highWeightDisplay.textContent;
var targetBmi = bmiIdealDisplay.textContent;
if (mainResult === "– kg" || !isValidNumber(parseFloat(lowLimit))) {
alert("Please calculate results first before copying.");
return;
}
var formulaText = "Formula Used (Simplified Devine): For men, Ideal Weight = 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet. For women, Ideal Weight = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet. We adjust slightly for body frame. A common BMI range for healthy weight is 18.5 to 24.9.";
var resultsText = "— Ideal Weight Calculation Results —\n\n";
resultsText += "Height: " + heightInput.value + " cm\n";
resultsText += "Gender: " + genderInput.value + "\n";
resultsText += "Body Frame: " + bodyFrameInput.value + "\n\n";
resultsText += "Primary Result (Estimated Ideal Weight): " + mainResult + "\n";
resultsText += "Healthy Weight Range (BMI 18.5-24.9): " + lowLimit + " kg – " + highLimit + " kg\n";
resultsText += "Target BMI: " + targetBmi + "\n\n";
resultsText += "Key Assumptions:\n" + formulaText;
navigator.clipboard.writeText(resultsText).then(function() {
alert("Results copied to clipboard!");
}).catch(function(err) {
console.error("Failed to copy results: ", err);
alert("Failed to copy results. Please copy manually.");
});
}
function toggleFaq(element) {
var parent = element.parentElement;
parent.classList.toggle('open');
}
// Add event listeners for real-time updates
heightInput.addEventListener("input", calculateIdealWeight);
genderInput.addEventListener("change", calculateIdealWeight);
bodyFrameInput.addEventListener("change", calculateIdealWeight);