Determining an "ideal" body weight is a complex topic, as it varies significantly based on individual factors like age, muscle mass, bone density, body composition, and genetics.
However, various formulas and methods exist to provide a general guideline for a healthy weight range.
This calculator uses a common formula tailored for women, often referred to as the Hamwi method, with adjustments for frame size, to estimate a healthy weight range.
The Calculation Method
The Hamwi formula is a widely used and simple method for estimating ideal body weight. For women, it traditionally starts with a base weight for a certain height and then adds a fixed amount for each inch above that height.
Base for Women: 100 lbs for the first 5 feet (60 inches) of height.
Per Inch: Add 5 lbs for every inch over 5 feet.
Frame Size Adjustment:
Body frame size can influence weight. A smaller frame generally means a lower ideal weight, while a larger frame may accommodate a slightly higher ideal weight within a healthy range.
Small Frame: Subtract approximately 10% from the calculated weight.
Medium Frame: Use the calculated weight as is (or with minor adjustments).
Large Frame: Add approximately 10% to the calculated weight.
This calculator converts the inputs (feet and inches) into total inches, applies the base weight and per-inch addition, and then adjusts for the selected frame size to provide an estimated ideal weight in pounds.
Why is Ideal Body Weight Important?
Maintaining a weight within a healthy range is associated with numerous health benefits, including:
Reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
Improved mobility and joint health.
Increased energy levels.
Better sleep quality.
Enhanced self-esteem and mental well-being.
Important Considerations:
It's crucial to remember that these are just estimates. Factors like muscle mass (which is denser than fat) can lead to a higher weight without necessarily indicating poor health.
Always consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and for a comprehensive assessment of your health status. They can consider your unique body composition, lifestyle, and medical history.
function calculateIdealWeight() {
var heightFeet = parseFloat(document.getElementById("heightFeet").value);
var heightInches = parseFloat(document.getElementById("heightInches").value);
var frameSize = document.getElementById("frameSize").value;
var resultDiv = document.getElementById("result");
// Clear previous results and errors
resultDiv.innerHTML = "";
// Input validation
if (isNaN(heightFeet) || isNaN(heightInches)) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter valid numbers for height.";
resultDiv.style.backgroundColor = "#dc3545"; // Error red
return;
}
if (heightFeet < 0 || heightInches 11) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = "Height values cannot be negative, and inches must be between 0 and 11.";
resultDiv.style.backgroundColor = "#dc3545"; // Error red
return;
}
var totalInches = (heightFeet * 12) + heightInches;
var idealWeightLbs = 0;
// Hamwi formula for women
if (totalInches 0) { // Add for inches if height is positive and less than 60
idealWeightLbs += (totalInches – 0) * 5; // Add 5 lbs per inch for the first 60 inches
}
} else { // For heights over 5 feet
idealWeightLbs = 100; // Base for first 5 feet
idealWeightLbs += (totalInches – 60) * 5; // Add 5 lbs for every inch over 60
}
// Adjust for frame size
var adjustmentPercentage = 0;
if (frameSize === "small") {
adjustmentPercentage = -0.10; // Subtract 10%
} else if (frameSize === "large") {
adjustmentPercentage = 0.10; // Add 10%
}
// Medium frame has 0% adjustment
var adjustedWeight = idealWeightLbs * (1 + adjustmentPercentage);
// Display the result
resultDiv.innerHTML = "Your estimated ideal weight is: " + adjustedWeight.toFixed(2) + " lbs";
resultDiv.style.backgroundColor = "var(–success-green)"; // Success green
}