Ideal Weight Calculator
Find your healthy weight range based on your height
Ideal Weight Calculator
Based on the Devine Formula — used clinically since 1974
Height Unit
Understanding Ideal Weight
"Ideal weight" is not a single number but a healthy weight range. Your ideal weight depends on several factors including height, body composition, age, gender, and muscle mass. This calculator uses the Devine Formula, a widely-used medical formula that accounts for height and gender to estimate a healthy weight range.
It's important to note that weight alone doesn't determine health. Two people of the same height and weight can look very different depending on their muscle mass and body composition. This is why BMI and body composition assessment are better indicators of health than weight alone.
How the Devine Formula Works
The Devine Formula was developed in 1974 by B.J. Devine and has been validated for use in medical settings. It calculates ideal body weight based on height and gender:
For Men:
IBW = 50 kg + 2.3 kg × (height in inches - 60)
For Women:
IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg × (height in inches - 60)
The calculator provides a ±10% range around the calculated ideal weight to account for individual variations.
Factors That Affect Your Healthy Weight
Muscle Mass
Muscle weighs more than fat. Two people with the same weight can look different if one has more muscle mass. This is why building muscle can increase weight even while you look leaner.
Age
Metabolic rate changes with age. Younger individuals often have faster metabolisms, while older individuals may need to adjust their approach to weight management.
Genetics
Your genetics influence your frame size, metabolism, and natural body composition. Your ideal weight should fit your unique body structure.
Body Composition
Your ratio of muscle to fat is more important than the number on the scale. Focus on reducing body fat percentage rather than just losing weight.
Healthy Weight Loss Guidelines
Realistic Rate: Aim for 0.5-1 kg (1-2 lbs) per week. Rapid weight loss often results in muscle loss and is harder to maintain.
Caloric Deficit: Create a deficit of 500-750 calories per day through diet and exercise to lose 0.5-1 kg per week.
Protein Intake: Eat adequate protein (0.8-1.2g per pound of body weight) to preserve muscle while losing weight.
Exercise: Combine cardio for calorie burning with strength training to preserve and build muscle.
Consistency: Small, sustainable changes are more effective than drastic measures. Focus on building healthy habits.
Monitor Progress: Don't rely solely on the scale. Track measurements, how clothes fit, and performance metrics too.
Ideal Weight vs BMI
Both ideal weight and BMI are useful screening tools, but they have limitations:
Ideal Weight
- Provides a target weight range based on height
- Doesn't account for muscle mass or body composition
- Useful as a general guideline
- Accounts for gender differences
BMI (Body Mass Index)
- Calculates weight relative to height
- Doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat
- Good population-level health indicator
- Can be misleading for athletic individuals
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on the Devine Formula. Your ideal weight depends on many individual factors including age, body composition, genetics, and overall health. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized weight management advice, especially if you have health conditions.