What Is Your Ideal Weight?
There is no single perfect weight - but there is a healthy range for every height and frame. This calculator uses three clinically validated formulas (Devine, Robinson, Miller, Hamwi) to estimate your ideal weight range and healthy BMI zone.
The Four Ideal Weight Formulas
| Formula | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Devine (1974) | 50 + 2.3 ร (height - 60) | 45.5 + 2.3 ร (height - 60) |
| Robinson (1983) | 52 + 1.9 ร (height - 60) | 49 + 1.7 ร (height - 60) |
| Miller (1983) | 56.2 + 1.41 ร (height - 60) | 53.1 + 1.36 ร (height - 60) |
| Hamwi (1964) | 48 + 2.7 ร (height - 60) | 45.5 + 2.2 ร (height - 60) |
All formulas use height in inches above 5 feet (60 inches).
Worked Example: 5 ft 10 in Man
- Height: 70 inches (10 above 60)
- Devine: 50 + 2.3(10) = 73.0 kg (161 lb)
- Robinson: 52 + 1.9(10) = 71.0 kg (157 lb)
- Miller: 56.2 + 1.41(10) = 70.3 kg (155 lb)
- Hamwi: 48 + 2.7(10) = 75.0 kg (165 lb)
- Healthy range: 155-165 lb
BMI-Based Healthy Range
| Height | Healthy Weight Range (BMI 18.5-24.9) |
|---|---|
| 5'0" | 95-128 lb |
| 5'4" | 110-145 lb |
| 5'6" | 118-155 lb |
| 5'8" | 125-164 lb |
| 5'10" | 132-174 lb |
| 6'0" | 140-184 lb |
| 6'2" | 148-194 lb |
Limitations of Ideal Weight Formulas
- Designed for adults, not children or teens
- Do not account for muscle mass - athletes often exceed "ideal" weight while being very lean
- Based on mortality data from mid-20th century populations
- Do not consider frame size (small, medium, large)
- Ethnic differences in body composition are not captured
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most accurate ideal weight formula?
None is definitively best. The Devine formula is most widely used clinically. A healthy BMI range (18.5-24.9) is a reasonable target.
Should athletes aim for ideal weight?
No. Muscular athletes often weigh above "ideal" while having low body fat. Use body fat percentage instead.
Does ideal weight change with age?
Yes - some studies suggest a slightly higher BMI is protective for adults over 65.
How much should I weigh for my height?
See the BMI table above. Your healthy range is 18.5-24.9 ร heightยฒ.
What if I am outside the healthy range?
If you are underweight or obese, talk to a doctor. Small sustainable changes beat crash diets.
Is ideal weight different for men and women?
Yes - men naturally have more muscle mass and higher bone density, so their ideal weight is 8-15% higher at the same height.