Ideal Body Weight Calculator
Calculate your target weight using 4 validated formulas and compare results
Your Information
Formula Details
Devine Formula (1974)
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg × (height in inches - 60)
Most widely used in clinical settings for medication dosing
Hamwi Formula (1964)
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg × (height in inches - 60)
Simple rule-of-thumb method, slightly higher for men
Miller Formula (1983)
Women: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg × (height in inches - 60)
More conservative, tends to give higher base weights
Robinson Formula (1983)
Women: 49 kg + 1.7 kg × (height in inches - 60)
Mid-range between Devine and Miller
Understanding Ideal Body Weight
💡 What is IBW?
Ideal Body Weight formulas were developed to estimate a healthy target weight based on height. They're primarily used in clinical settings for medication dosing and nutritional assessments.
⚠️ Important Limitations
- • Does NOT account for body composition (muscle vs fat)
- • Does NOT consider frame size or bone density
- • May underestimate for athletes with high muscle mass
- • Original formulas based on 1960s-1980s populations
- • Not validated for children or very tall/short adults
✓ When to Use IBW
- • Setting initial weight loss/gain goals
- • Clinical medication dosing calculations
- • Nutritional requirement estimates
- • General health screening reference
Better Alternatives
- • Body Fat Percentage - measures actual composition
- • Waist-to-Hip Ratio - assesses fat distribution
- • Lean Body Mass - tracks muscle retention
- • BMI - height-weight relationship
FAQs
Why do the formulas give different results?
Each formula was developed using different populations and methods. The differences typically range from 2-5 kg. Use the average of all formulas as your target range.
Which formula is most accurate?
Devine is most commonly used clinically, but no single formula is universally superior. Your actual ideal weight depends on body composition, frame size, and health goals.
I'm very muscular - is my IBW too low?
Yes. IBW formulas don't account for muscle mass. Athletes and bodybuilders should focus on body fat percentage instead of weight targets.
Should I try to reach my exact IBW?
No. IBW is a reference point, not a strict target. A healthy range is typically ±10% of your IBW. Focus on body composition and overall health markers.
Can I use IBW for weight loss goals?
Yes, IBW provides a reasonable initial target. Combine it with body fat percentage monitoring and adjust based on how you feel and your health metrics.
References
Original Devine formula publication
Robinson formula study
Miller formula publication