Ideal Weight Calculator - Calculate Your Healthy Weight

What is Ideal Weight?

Ideal body weight is an estimate of what a person should weigh based on their height, gender, and sometimes age and body frame. It's a general guideline, not an absolute standard, as "ideal" varies based on individual factors.

Why It Matters

• Health Benchmark: Target for maintaining good health
• Disease Prevention: Reduces risk of chronic conditions
• Goal Setting: Provides realistic weight targets
• Health Assessment: Screens for potential health risks

Ideal Weight Formulas

1. BMI-Based Method

Body Mass Index (BMI) Formula:

BMI = Weight (kg) / Height² (m)

Ideal Weight = BMI × Height²

Healthy BMI Range: 18.5 - 24.9

2. Devine Formula (1974)

Most commonly used formula

For Men: Ideal Weight (kg) = 50 + 2.3 × (Height in inches - 60)

For Women: Ideal Weight (kg) = 45.5 + 2.3 × (Height in inches - 60)

3. Robinson Formula (1983)

For Men: Ideal Weight (kg) = 52 + 1.9 × (Height in inches - 60)

For Women: Ideal Weight (kg) = 49 + 1.7 × (Height in inches - 60)

4. Miller Formula (1983)

For Men: Ideal Weight (kg) = 56.2 + 1.41 × (Height in inches - 60)

For Women: Ideal Weight (kg) = 53.1 + 1.36 × (Height in inches - 60)

5. Hamwi Formula (1964)

For Men: Ideal Weight (kg) = 48 + 2.7 × (Height in inches - 60)

For Women: Ideal Weight (kg) = 45.5 + 2.2 × (Height in inches - 60)

Body Frame Size Adjustment

How to Determine Your Frame Size

Method 1: Wrist Circumference

For Men:

• Small Frame: Wrist < 5.5" (under 5'10") or < 6.5" (over 5'10")
• Medium Frame: Wrist = 5.5" to 6.5" (under 5'10") or 6.5" to 7.5" (over 5'10")
• Large Frame: Wrist > 6.5" (under 5'10") or > 7.5" (over 5'10")

For Women:

• Small Frame: Wrist < 5.5" (under 5'2") or < 6.0" (over 5'2")
• Medium Frame: Wrist = 5.5" to 5.7" (under 5'2") or 6.0" to 6.25" (over 5'2")
• Large Frame: Wrist > 5.7" (under 5'2") or > 6.25" (over 5'2")

Adjustment:

• Small Frame: Ideal Weight - 10%
• Medium Frame: No adjustment
• Large Frame: Ideal Weight + 10%

Limitations of Ideal Weight Formulas

What They Don't Account For

• Muscle Mass: Muscle weighs more than fat
• Bone Density: Denser bones add weight
• Body Composition: Fat vs. muscle ratio
• Age-Related Changes: Body composition changes with age
• Ethnicity: Different body types across populations
• Fitness Level: Athletes vs. sedentary individuals

When BMI and Ideal Weight Don't Work

Athletes/Bodybuilders:

• High muscle mass
• BMI may indicate "overweight"
• Actually very healthy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most accurate ideal weight formula?

No single formula is "most accurate." BMI is most commonly used but doesn't account for muscle. Devine and Robinson are also popular. Use formulas as guidelines, not absolute rules.

Why do different formulas give different results?

Each formula was developed using different populations and methodologies. Variations of 5-10% between formulas are normal and expected.

Do I need to be exactly at my ideal weight?

No. Ideal weight is a range, not a single number. Being within 10% of ideal weight is generally healthy. Body composition matters more than exact weight.

Does muscle mass affect ideal weight calculations?

Most traditional formulas don't account for muscle mass. Athletes and bodybuilders may be "overweight" by formula standards but have healthy body compositions.

How does age affect ideal weight?

As we age, we tend to lose muscle and gain fat. Many experts suggest slightly higher BMIs (25-27) for older adults (65+) may be protective.

What if I'm outside the ideal weight range but healthy?

Focus on other health markers: blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, fitness level, energy, and how you feel. Weight is just one indicator.

Can ideal weight change over time?

Yes, as you age or your body composition changes. Recalculate periodically, especially after significant lifestyle changes.

Is it possible to be overweight but healthy?

Yes, this is called "metabolically healthy obesity." However, excess weight still increases health risks over time. Focus on healthy habits regardless of weight.