How ideal weight is calculated
Each formula starts with a base weight for someone 5 feet tall, then adds a set amount for every inch above that. They were created for medical use, such as dosing medicines, so they give one number rather than a range.
- Devine (1974): the most widely used in hospitals.
- Robinson (1983) and Miller (1983): updates of Devine's formula.
- Hamwi (1964): often used by dietitians.
The calculator shows the average of the four, and the weight range that gives a healthy BMI of 18.5–24.9 for your height. That range is the more useful target for most people.
Your frame, muscle and age all matter. If you lift weights, check your body fat too.
How to use the ideal weight calculator
Choose male or female and enter your height. You'll see the average of four medical formulas, each formula's result, and the healthy weight range for your height based on BMI.
Ideal weight example
For a woman who is 5 ft 5 in, the formulas give about 125–132 lb (Devine about 126 lb). Her healthy BMI range is about 111–150 lb. For a man who is 5 ft 10 in, the formulas give about 155–165 lb, with a healthy BMI range of about 129–173 lb.
Ideal weight chart
| Height | Women (Devine) | Men (Devine) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 ft 2 in | 110 lb | 121 lb |
| 5 ft 4 in | 120 lb | 131 lb |
| 5 ft 6 in | 131 lb | 141 lb |
| 5 ft 8 in | 141 lb | 151 lb |
| 5 ft 10 in | 151 lb | 161 lb |
| 6 ft 0 in | 161 lb | 171 lb |
| 6 ft 2 in | 171 lb | 181 lb |
How to reach a healthy weight
Set a realistic calorie target with the calorie calculator, see your timeline with the calorie deficit calculator, and keep an eye on body composition, not just the scale. Read BMI vs body fat to see why.
Frequently asked questions
What is my ideal weight for my height?
Enter your height above. For example, a 5 ft 9 in man has an ideal weight of about 152–159 lb by these formulas, with a healthy BMI range of about 125–168 lb.
Which ideal weight formula is best?
None is perfect. Devine is the most common in medicine; the healthy BMI range is a better everyday target.
Does ideal weight depend on age?
The formulas don't use age, but body composition changes as we get older, so a slightly higher weight can be fine for older adults.
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