How to use the ideal weight calculator
Enter your height and sex. You get the healthy weight range for your height, based on BMI, and the "ideal body weight" from four well-known formulas.
Ideal body weight formulas
| Formula | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Devine (1974) | 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 ft | 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 ft |
| Robinson (1983) | 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch | 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch |
| Miller (1983) | 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch | 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch |
| Hamwi (1964) | 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch | 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch |
Healthy weight range = 18.5 × height(m)² to 24.9 × height(m)²
Worked example
A man 175 cm tall (68.9 in, so 8.9 in over 5 ft): Devine = 50 + 2.3 × 8.9 = 70.5 kg; Robinson 68.9 kg; Miller 68.7 kg; Hamwi 72.0 kg.
The healthy BMI range for 1.75 m is 18.5 × 3.0625 to 24.9 × 3.0625 = 56.7 to 76.3 kg.
Which number should I use?
The Devine, Robinson and Miller formulas were made to help doctors work out medicine doses, and Hamwi's came from diet planning for people with diabetes. None was meant as a personal goal, and they don't consider muscle or build. For most adults, the healthy BMI range is a better guide. Use the BMI calculator to see where you are now, or the body fat calculator for a view that includes muscle.
Frequently asked questions
Why don't the formulas work under 5 feet?
They were designed for heights of 5 ft (152.4 cm) and over. For shorter heights, use the healthy BMI range.
Why do the formulas give different answers?
Each was built from different data and for different uses. The spread shows that there's no single "ideal" weight.
Formulas checked 29 October 2026. How we test our calculators. This calculator gives general estimates for adults and is not medical advice. Talk to a doctor or dietitian about your own health.