What "ideal weight" really means
There's no single perfect weight for a given height — which is why this calculator shows four respected formulas plus your healthy BMI range. Together they give you a sensible target band rather than one rigid number.
"Ideal body weight" formulas were originally created to help doctors dose medication and set clinical targets. They're useful reference points, but your best weight also depends on your muscle, frame size, age and health goals. Treat the range as a guide, not a finish line.
The four formulas explained
| Formula | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Devine | 1974 | The clinical standard, widely used for drug dosing. |
| Robinson | 1983 | A refinement of Devine; tends to give slightly lower figures. |
| Miller | 1983 | Another Devine refinement with a gentler height adjustment. |
| Hamwi | 1964 | A quick rule-of-thumb still used by many dietitians. |
Each works the same way: a base weight at five feet of height, plus a fixed amount for every inch above that. That's why they all converge for shorter people and spread apart for taller ones.
Why we also show a BMI range
The single biggest limitation of these formulas is that they only consider height and sex — not your build or body composition. The healthy BMI range we display (a BMI of 18.5–24.9 at your height) is often the more practical target because it's a band, leaving room for differences in muscle and frame. If you're very muscular, expect to sit at the upper end or even above it while still being lean — confirm with the body fat calculator.
Reaching your target
If your current weight is above or below your target band, the path is the same as any weight goal: a sustainable calorie adjustment. Find your maintenance level with the calorie calculator, aim for a moderate deficit or surplus, and protect muscle with adequate protein from the macro calculator. Check your BMI along the way to confirm you're moving into the healthy range.
Helpful tools to track your progress
Track weight and trends over time.
View options →Weigh portions to hit your targets accurately.
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Frequently asked questions
Which ideal weight formula should I use?
The Devine formula is the clinical standard and a good default. Because all four only use height and sex, it's best to treat the spread of results, plus your healthy BMI range, as a target band.
Does ideal weight account for muscle?
No. These formulas use only height and sex, so muscular people may sit above their 'ideal' figure while still being lean. Check body fat percentage for a fuller picture.
Is ideal weight the same as goal weight?
Not necessarily. Ideal weight is a statistical reference; your personal goal weight should also reflect your build, health and how you look and feel.
How is ideal weight calculated?
Each formula starts from a base weight at five feet of height and adds a set amount per inch above that, with different constants for men and women.