Determine your optimal body weight based on height, gender, and scientific formulas. Use this professional weight ideal calculator to set realistic health goals.
Male
Female
Formulas differ significantly based on biological sex.
Please enter a valid height (50-300 cm).
Enter feet and inches separately.
Please enter valid values.
Used to calculate the difference from your ideal range.
Please enter a positive weight.
Age is included for record-keeping but does not alter the Devine formula.
Your Ideal Weight (Devine Formula)
—
Target Range: —
Weight Difference—
To reach ideal weight
Current BMI Status—
Healthy BMI Range (18.5 – 24.9)—
Formula Method
Calculated Weight
Basis
Comparison of different medical weight standards.
Visual comparison: Current vs. Ideal Formula vs. Healthy BMI Zone.
What is a Weight Ideal Calculator?
A weight ideal calculator is a specialized health tool designed to estimate the optimal body weight for an individual based on anthropometric data such as height and gender. Unlike a simple scale, a weight ideal calculator provides a scientifically derived target that correlates with lower risks of chronic diseases and higher longevity.
These calculators are widely used by dietitians, fitness trainers, and medical professionals to set realistic health goals. While Body Mass Index (BMI) is a common metric, a comprehensive weight ideal calculator often utilizes older, more specific actuarial formulas like the Devine or Robinson equations to provide a precise number rather than a broad range.
It is important to note that a weight ideal calculator provides a statistical baseline. It applies to the general population and may need adjustment for athletes with high muscle mass or elderly individuals.
Weight Ideal Calculator Formula and Math
The concept of "ideal weight" has been calculated using various formulas over the decades. This weight ideal calculator primarily uses the Devine Formula (1974), which is the standard used in medical pharmacology for dosing medications. We also compare this with the Healthy BMI Range.
The Devine Formula
The Devine formula assumes a base weight for a height of 5 feet and adds a set amount of weight for every inch over 5 feet.
Men: Ideal Weight = 50 kg + 2.3 kg × (Height in inches – 60)
Women: Ideal Weight = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg × (Height in inches – 60)
Variables Table
Variable
Meaning
Unit (Metric/Imperial)
Typical Range
H
Height
cm or inches
140cm – 210cm
Base
Base Weight @ 5ft
kg
50 (M) / 45.5 (F)
Rate
Weight per inch > 5ft
kg
2.3 kg
Parameters used in the Devine calculation.
Practical Examples
Example 1: The Average Male
Consider John, who wants to use the weight ideal calculator. He is a 30-year-old male, 5 feet 10 inches tall (70 inches), currently weighing 200 lbs.
Input: Male, 5ft 10in (70 inches).
Calculation (Devine):
Base: 50 kg
Height over 5ft: 10 inches
Add: 10 × 2.3 kg = 23 kg
Total (kg): 50 + 23 = 73 kg
Total (lbs): 73 × 2.20462 ≈ 161 lbs
Result: John's ideal weight is approximately 161 lbs. Since he weighs 200 lbs, he is 39 lbs over his calculated ideal.
Example 2: The Tall Female
Sarah uses the weight ideal calculator. She is 5 feet 8 inches (68 inches) tall.
Input: Female, 5ft 8in.
Calculation (Devine):
Base: 45.5 kg
Height over 5ft: 8 inches
Add: 8 × 2.3 kg = 18.4 kg
Total (kg): 45.5 + 18.4 = 63.9 kg
Total (lbs): 63.9 × 2.20462 ≈ 141 lbs
Result: Sarah's ideal weight is roughly 64 kg (141 lbs).
How to Use This Weight Ideal Calculator
Select Unit System: Choose between Metric (kilograms/centimeters) or Imperial (pounds/feet/inches) using the toggle at the top.
Enter Gender: Select Male or Female. This fundamentally changes the baseline formula used by the weight ideal calculator.
Input Height: Be precise. If using Imperial, enter feet and inches separately.
Input Current Weight: This allows the calculator to generate a comparison chart and tell you how far you are from the target.
Analyze Results: Look at the "Main Result" for the Devine formula output, but also review the "Healthy BMI Range" for a broader, more flexible target.
Key Factors That Affect Weight Ideal Calculator Results
While formulas provide a solid starting point, several real-world factors influence what your true "ideal" weight should be.
1. Muscle Mass vs. Body Fat
The weight ideal calculator does not distinguish between muscle and fat. An athlete with high muscle density may weigh significantly more than the calculator suggests but still be metabolically healthy.
2. Bone Frame Size
People with larger skeletal frames naturally weigh more. The Robinson and Devine formulas were originally designed for people with medium frames. Small frames might aim 10% lower, and large frames 10% higher.
3. Age and Metabolism
As we age, metabolic rate slows, and muscle mass naturally decreases (sarcopenia). While the formula result remains constant, maintaining that weight becomes harder and may require stricter nutritional adherence.
4. Health Conditions
Certain conditions like hypothyroidism or insulin resistance can make achieving the calculated "ideal" difficult. In these cases, a "healthy" weight might be slightly higher than the "ideal" weight.
5. Body Fat Distribution
Where you store fat matters more than the total number. Visceral fat (around organs) is riskier than subcutaneous fat. A person might be at their "ideal weight" but still have unhealthy visceral fat ("skinny fat").
6. Hydration Levels
Your weight fluctuates daily by 1-2 kg due to water retention. When using a weight ideal calculator, remember that your scale weight is a snapshot that includes variable water weight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the weight ideal calculator 100% accurate?
No calculator is 100% accurate for everyone. The weight ideal calculator provides a statistical estimation based on population averages. It is a guideline, not a strict medical mandate.
Why does the calculator give me a single number?
The Devine formula outputs a single number to be precise for dosing purposes. However, we also provide the BMI range (18.5-24.9) to show you a healthy "zone" rather than just a single point.
Does this apply to children?
No. This weight ideal calculator is intended for adults over 18. Children and teenagers use growth charts (percentiles) rather than static formulas.
What if I am very short or very tall?
Formulas like Devine are most accurate for heights between 5ft and 6ft. For extremely tall or short individuals, the BMI range method included in the results is often a better metric.
Should I use this if I am pregnant?
No. Pregnancy requires specific weight gain guidelines based on pre-pregnancy BMI. Consult an obstetrician rather than a standard weight ideal calculator.
Which formula is the best?
The Devine formula is the most widely accepted for medical use. The Robinson and Miller formulas are variations that yield slightly different results. We display Devine as the primary result.
How often should I check my ideal weight?
Your ideal weight based on height doesn't change once you stop growing. However, checking your progress toward that weight can be done weekly.
Can I have a healthy weight outside the ideal range?
Yes. Many people are healthy slightly above or below the calculated ideal, especially if they exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Explore our other health and fitness calculators to get a complete picture of your physical well-being:
BMI Calculator – A basic tool to determine if you are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
Body Fat Percentage – Understand your body composition beyond just total weight.