We use cookies to improve your experience. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies.
Find your ideal body weight based on your height and sex using multiple scientific formulas. Compare results from Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi methods.
Ideal body weight (IBW) is an estimated weight that is considered optimal for a person's height and sex. Originally developed for pharmaceutical dosing calculations, IBW formulas have become widely used as general health references. Our calculator uses four well-established formulas — Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi — and provides their average for a balanced estimate.
The Devine formula (1974) is the most commonly used in clinical practice: Males = 50 + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet; Females = 45.5 + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet. The Robinson formula (1983) adjusts these values slightly. The Miller formula (1983) tends to give higher estimates, especially for shorter individuals. The Hamwi formula (1964) is one of the earliest and uses different increments for men and women. By averaging all four, you get a more balanced and reliable estimate.
Ideal weight formulas have significant limitations. They were developed primarily from Caucasian population data and may not be equally applicable to all ethnicities. They do not account for muscle mass, bone structure, body fat percentage, or age. Athletes and muscular individuals may have a healthy weight well above their calculated ideal weight. These formulas should be used as general guidelines rather than strict targets. The BMI-based healthy weight range provides a broader and often more practical reference.