Find your healthy weight range using multiple established formulas
Ideal body weight (IBW) is the estimated weight at which a person of a given height would have the lowest risk of weight-related health problems. Unlike BMI, which just measures weight relative to height, ideal weight formulas account for gender differences in body composition.
These formulas were originally developed for clinical purposes—calculating drug dosages, determining ventilator settings, and assessing nutritional needs. Over time, they've become widely used as general health guidelines, though they have limitations for athletes and people with unusual body compositions.
Once you have your ideal weight target, use the Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) Calculator to calculate the exact daily calories needed to reach it.
The most commonly used formula in modern healthcare settings.
A refined formula that tends to give slightly higher estimates.
Originally designed for drug dosing, now a clinical standard.
The classic formula, still widely referenced today.
Body frame (bone structure) affects ideal weight:
Robinson: 68 kg
Miller: 71 kg
Devine: 70 kg
Hamwi: 72 kg
Average: 70 kg
Robinson: 57 kg
Miller: 60 kg
Devine: 57 kg
Hamwi: 56 kg
Average: 58 kg
Robinson: 80 kg
Miller: 79 kg
Devine: 85 kg
Hamwi: 88 kg
Average: 83 kg
Each formula was developed using different study populations and methodologies. Devine used insurance company data from the 1960s, while Robinson and Miller used more modern data. Differences of 5-10 kg between formulas are normal—that's why we average them and provide a range.
Ideal weight formulas don't account for muscle mass. Athletes and bodybuilders often weigh significantly more than their "ideal" weight while being very healthy. If you train with weights regularly, use body fat percentage as a better indicator of health.
Wrap your thumb and middle finger around your wrist at the narrowest point. If they overlap, you have a small frame. If they just touch, medium frame. If they don't touch, large frame.
No—the "ideal" is a target, not a requirement. The healthy range (±10% from ideal) is where you should aim. Focus on how you feel, your energy levels, and body composition rather than hitting an exact number.
Ideal weight is just one metric. Combine it with BMI, body fat percentage, and calorie calculations for a comprehensive view.
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