Determine your optimal body weight range using medically established formulas.
Male
Female
Biological sex affects body composition formulas.
Imperial (Feet/Inches)
Metric (Centimeters)
Please enter a valid height.
Please enter a valid height.
Estimated Ideal Weight Range
160 – 176 lbs
Based on the average of Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi formulas.
Devine Formula
166 lbs
Robinson Formula
164 lbs
Healthy BMI Range
129 – 174 lbs
Detailed Formula Breakdown
Formula Method
Weight (lbs)
Weight (kg)
Weight Range Visualization
Comparison of different medical weight formulas against the WHO Healthy BMI range.
What is an Ideal Height Weight Calculator?
An ideal height weight calculator is a specialized tool designed to estimate the optimal body weight for an individual based on their height and gender. Unlike a simple scale, this calculator utilizes medically established formulas developed by researchers over decades to provide a target weight range that correlates with longevity and reduced health risks.
While the concept of an "ideal" weight is subjective and varies by body composition, these calculators serve as a vital baseline for medical professionals, athletes, and individuals seeking to improve their health. The ideal height weight calculator helps users distinguish between a healthy weight and potential underweight or overweight classifications.
It is important to note that this tool calculates "Ideal Body Weight" (IBW) based on statistical averages. It does not directly account for muscle mass, bone density, or age, which are also critical factors in overall health assessment.
Ideal Height Weight Calculator Formula and Mathematical Explanation
There is no single universal formula for the ideal height weight calculator. Instead, several formulas have been developed for specific medical purposes, primarily for dosing medications. The most common formulas used in this calculator include:
1. The Devine Formula (1974)
Originally developed to calculate drug clearances, this is the most widely used formula for IBW.
Men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
2. The Robinson Formula (1983)
A modification of the Devine formula based on updated population data.
Men: 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
3. The Miller Formula (1983)
Often used to estimate IBW where the Devine formula might overestimate.
Men: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet
Variable Definitions
Variable
Meaning
Unit
Typical Range
Base Weight
Starting weight for 5ft height
kg
45.5 – 56.2
Height Factor
Weight added per inch > 5ft
kg/inch
1.36 – 2.7
Height
Total stature of individual
inches/cm
58 – 80 inches
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: The Average Male
Consider a male who is 5 feet 10 inches tall (178 cm). He wants to know his target weight for a marathon.
Input: Male, 5'10"
Calculation (Devine): 50 kg + (2.3 × 10 inches) = 73 kg (approx 161 lbs).
Calculation (Robinson): 52 kg + (1.9 × 10 inches) = 71 kg (approx 156 lbs).
Result: The ideal height weight calculator suggests a target around 156-161 lbs.
Example 2: The Petite Female
Consider a female who is 5 feet 4 inches tall (163 cm).
Input: Female, 5'4″
Calculation (Devine): 45.5 kg + (2.3 × 4 inches) = 54.7 kg (approx 120 lbs).
Calculation (Miller): 53.1 kg + (1.36 × 4 inches) = 58.5 kg (approx 129 lbs).
Result: The range is roughly 120-129 lbs depending on the formula used.
How to Use This Ideal Height Weight Calculator
Select Gender: Choose Male or Female. This adjusts the base weight and multiplier in the algorithm.
Choose Unit System: Select Imperial (Feet/Inches) or Metric (Centimeters) based on your preference.
Enter Height: Input your accurate height. Ensure you measure without shoes for precision.
Review Results: The calculator will instantly display the IBW based on four different medical formulas.
Analyze the Chart: Use the visual bar chart to see how the specific formulas compare to the general Healthy BMI range (18.5 – 24.9).
Key Factors That Affect Ideal Height Weight Results
While the ideal height weight calculator provides a mathematical baseline, several biological and lifestyle factors influence what your true "ideal" weight should be:
Muscle Mass: Muscle is denser than fat. An athlete may weigh significantly more than the calculator suggests but still be very healthy.
Bone Frame Size: Individuals with larger bone structures (broad shoulders, wide wrists) naturally weigh more. The Hamwi formula is often adjusted by ±10% to account for frame size.
Age: Metabolism slows and body composition changes with age. Older adults may carry slightly more weight without health risks compared to younger adults.
Body Fat Percentage: This is often a better health indicator than weight alone. Two people can have the same IBW but vastly different health profiles based on fat vs. muscle.
Pregnancy and Lactation: These formulas do not apply to pregnant or breastfeeding women, as weight gain is necessary and physiological.
Health Conditions: Certain conditions like edema (water retention) can skew weight, making the calculated ideal less relevant than fluid management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the ideal height weight calculator the same as BMI?
No. BMI (Body Mass Index) is a broad range based solely on the ratio of weight to height squared. The ideal height weight calculator uses specific linear regression formulas (like Devine or Robinson) to pinpoint a specific target weight, often resulting in a narrower, more specific number than the broad BMI range.
Which formula is the most accurate?
The Devine formula is the most widely accepted standard in the medical community for calculating drug dosages. However, the Robinson formula is often considered more accurate for modern populations. It is best to look at the range provided by all formulas.
Why does the calculator give different results for men and women?
Biologically, men generally have more muscle mass and heavier bone density than women of the same height. The formulas account for this by using a higher base weight and a higher weight-per-inch multiplier for men.
What if my weight is higher than the calculated ideal?
Being above the calculated IBW does not automatically mean you are unhealthy. If the excess weight is muscle (as in bodybuilders), you may be healthy. However, if the excess is adipose tissue (fat), you may be at higher risk for cardiovascular issues.
Does this calculator work for children?
No. These formulas are derived for adults (generally 18+). Children and teenagers require specialized growth charts (CDC or WHO growth charts) that account for developmental stages.
How often should I check my ideal weight?
Your height rarely changes as an adult, so your calculated ideal weight remains constant. However, you should monitor your actual weight weekly to see how it compares to this target.
Does frame size matter?
Yes. The Hamwi formula specifically notes that for a small frame, you should subtract 10%, and for a large frame, add 10%. This calculator provides the medium frame average.
Can I use this for weight loss goals?
Yes, the ideal height weight calculator is an excellent tool for setting realistic long-term weight loss goals. It gives you a medically sound target rather than an arbitrary number.