What is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal body weight (IBW) is a weight that is believed to be maximally healthful for a person based on height. While "ideal" weight varies by individual, several scientific formulas have been developed over the decades to estimate a healthy target weight. These formulas consider height and gender as primary factors.
Ideal Weight Formulas
Devine Formula (1974)
Originally developed for calculating drug dosages, the Devine formula became widely used for ideal body weight estimation:
- Men: IBW = 50 kg + 2.3 kg × (height in inches − 60)
- Women: IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg × (height in inches − 60)
Robinson Formula (1983)
A modification of the Devine formula with slightly different coefficients:
- Men: IBW = 52 kg + 1.9 kg × (height in inches − 60)
- Women: IBW = 49 kg + 1.7 kg × (height in inches − 60)
Miller Formula (1983)
Another variation that tends to give higher estimates:
- Men: IBW = 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg × (height in inches − 60)
- Women: IBW = 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg × (height in inches − 60)
Hamwi Formula (1964)
One of the earliest formulas, still commonly referenced:
- Men: IBW = 48 kg + 2.7 kg × (height in inches − 60)
- Women: IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg × (height in inches − 60)
BMI-Based Healthy Weight
The World Health Organization defines a healthy BMI range as 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m². This calculator also shows the weight range corresponding to these BMI values for your height, providing another perspective on healthy weight targets.
Limitations
These formulas were developed based on population averages and may not account for individual factors such as:
- Muscle mass and body composition
- Age and bone density
- Ethnic and genetic variations
- Frame size (small, medium, large)
Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized health advice.