Compare 4 clinical formulas for a height-based reference weight range
Written by PJ·Last reviewed: March 2026·Methodology
What Is Ideal Body Weight?
Robinson (1983), Miller (1983), Devine (1974), Hamwi (1964) — Four clinical formulas estimate a reference weight based on height and sex. Each was developed for specific medical contexts (drug dosing, ventilator settings, nutritional assessment), not as personal physique targets.
Result: A reference weight range from 4 formulas, giving you a historical benchmark corridor rather than a single target number.
Key variables: height, sex
Important: These formulas do not account for body composition, muscle mass, or individual body structure — athletic or muscular individuals routinely exceed this range while being perfectly healthy
Best used as: a starting reference point, not a weight-loss prescription
Your Information
What is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal body weight (IBW) is a historical clinical term for the estimated weight at which a person of a given height might have lower risk of weight-related health problems. Despite the name, these are reference formulas, not personal ideals — they were developed for specific medical uses, not as universal physique targets.
These formulas were originally developed for clinical purposes — calculating drug dosages, determining ventilator settings, and assessing nutritional needs. They remain useful as rough reference points, but they do not account for muscle mass, body frame, training status, or individual genetics. A person who trains with weights regularly may weigh well above these formulas while being perfectly healthy.
For a more meaningful assessment, check your body fat percentage first. If you then want to adjust your weight, the TDEE Calculator can help estimate daily calorie needs.
The Four Formulas Explained
Robinson Formula (1983)
The most commonly used formula in modern healthcare settings.
Men: 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet Women: 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
Miller Formula (1983)
A refined formula that tends to give slightly higher estimates.
Men: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet Women: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet
Devine Formula (1974)
Originally designed for drug dosing, now a clinical standard.
Men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
Hamwi Formula (1964)
The classic formula, still widely referenced today.
Men: 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch over 5 feet Women: 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet
Frame Size Adjustment
Body frame (bone structure) can shift expected weight. This is a rough heuristic, not a precise measurement — treat it as directional guidance:
Small Frame: approximately -10% from the formula average
Medium Frame: No adjustment (default)
Large Frame: approximately +10% to the formula average
To estimate your frame size: wrap your thumb and middle finger around your wrist. If they overlap easily, you likely have a smaller frame. If they barely touch or don't meet, you likely have a larger frame.
Real-World Examples
Average Male (175 cm)
Robinson: 68 kg
Miller: 71 kg
Devine: 70 kg
Hamwi: 72 kg
Average: 70 kg
Range: 63-77 kg (±10%)
Average Female (165 cm)
Robinson: 57 kg
Miller: 60 kg
Devine: 57 kg
Hamwi: 56 kg
Average: 58 kg
Range: 52-64 kg (±10%)
Tall Male (190 cm)
Robinson: 80 kg
Miller: 79 kg
Devine: 85 kg
Hamwi: 88 kg
Average: 83 kg
Range: 75-91 kg (±10%)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do different formulas give different results?
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.
What if I'm very muscular?
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.
How do I determine my frame size?
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.
Should I aim for the exact ideal weight?
No — "ideal weight" is a clinical reference term, not a personal prescription. These formulas give you a rough benchmark range, but body composition, energy levels, training performance, and health markers are far more meaningful indicators. Use this as context, not a target.
Common Ideal Weight Mistakes
Treating formula weight as a personal target: These formulas estimate a statistical reference, not your individual ideal. Body composition, training status, and health markers tell you much more.
Ignoring muscle mass: Athletes and trained individuals routinely exceed formula "ideal" weight while being very healthy. Body fat percentage is a far better indicator.
Starting a diet based on formula deviation alone: Being 5-10 kg above a formula range does not automatically mean you need to lose weight. Check body fat, waist circumference, and energy levels first.
Fixating on a single number: A healthy weight is a broad range influenced by genetics, training, age, and body structure. Focus on trends and composition, not formula precision.