Calculate Your Ideal Body Weight
Enter your height and sex to get your ideal weight range using four standard formulas.
Ideal Weight Formulas
Devine Formula (1974)
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)
Men: 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet
Robinson Formula (1983)
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)
Men: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet
Healthy Weight Range by BMI
The WHO defines healthy weight as BMI 18.5-24.9. For any given height, this BMI range corresponds to a weight range. For example, for someone 5'9" (175 cm), healthy weight is approximately 125-169 lb (57-77 kg).
Learn more: BMI Calculator.
References
- Devine BJ. Gentamicin therapy. Drug Intell Clin Pharm. 1974;8:650-655.
- Robinson JD, Lupkiewicz SM, et al. Determination of ideal body weight for drug dosage calculations. Am J Hosp Pharm. 1983;40(6):1016-9.
- Miller DR, Carlson JD, et al. Comparison of formulae used to calculate ideal body weight in the obese patient. Am J Hosp Pharm. 1983;40(10):1622-5.
Frequently asked questions
What is ideal body weight?
Ideal body weight (IBW) is an estimated healthy weight based on height, sex, and sometimes frame size. Several formulas exist (Devine, Hamwi, Robinson, Miller). IBW is used in clinical settings for medication dosing and nutrition planning.
Is ideal weight the same for everyone of the same height?
No. Ideal weight varies by frame size, muscle mass, age, and individual body composition. IBW formulas provide a reference range, not a strict target. A healthy weight is one where you feel good, have energy, and maintain good health markers.
Which formula is most accurate?
All four formulas (Devine, Hamwi, Robinson, Miller) produce similar results. The Devine formula is most commonly used in medical settings. For a broader healthy range, use BMI 18.5-24.9.