MulticalcIdeal Weight Calculator
Quick Tips
- Frame size affects ideal weight by ±10%
- Compare multiple formulas for best view
- Ideal weight is a range, not a single number
- Athletes naturally weigh more (muscle)
- 150+ minutes aerobic exercise weekly
- Gradual progress is healthier than rapid changes
Important Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes. Ideal weight varies based on individual factors. Consult healthcare providers for personalized guidance specific to your health situation.Learn More
Body Frame Sizes:
- Small: -10% from calculated
- Medium: ±0% (baseline)
- Large: +10% from calculated
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Ideal Weight Formulas Explained
Several medically-developed formulas calculate ideal body weight based on height and gender. Each has strengths and is used by healthcare professionals.
1. Devine Formula (Most Commonly Used - 1974)
Male: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5'0"Female: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5'0"Widely used in clinical practice and drug dosing calculations. Provides good baseline for most populations.
2. Hamwi Formula (1964)
Male: 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch over 5'0"Female: 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5'0"Includes more gender differentiation than Devine. Often produces slightly higher weights for men.
3. Robinson Formula (Modified Devine)
Male: 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch over 5'0"Female: 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch over 5'0"Refinement of Devine formula, often more accurate for average to above-average heights.
4. Miller Formula (Simplified)
Male: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5'0"Female: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5'0"Simplified approach with good accuracy. Useful for quick estimates.
Real-World Example:
Scenario: 25-year-old female, height 165 cm (5'5"), medium frame
- Step 1: Convert height: 165 cm = 65 inches (5'5")
- Step 2: Calculate using Devine: 45.5 + 2.3 × (65-60) = 57 kg
- Step 3: Apply frame adjustment: Medium frame = no adjustment
- Result: Ideal weight ≈ 57 kg with healthy range 54-60 kg
Understanding Body Frame Size
Body frame size, determined by bone structure, significantly affects your ideal weight. Frame size can adjust the calculated ideal weight by approximately ±10%.
| Frame Size | Description | Wrist Measurement (Women) | Wrist Measurement (Men) | Weight Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Petite, smaller bones, delicate frame | < 5.75 inches | < 6.5 inches | -10% from ideal |
| Medium | Average bone structure, typical build | 5.75 - 7.25 inches | 6.5 - 7.5 inches | No adjustment (baseline) |
| Large | Larger bones, broader frame, robust structure | > 7.25 inches | > 7.5 inches | +10% from ideal |
How to Measure Your Frame Size:
- Extend your arm straight out in front of you
- Turn your hand sideways with palm facing you
- Use a measuring tape to measure across your wrist bone (the widest point)
- Compare your measurement to the ranges above for your gender
- This determines your frame size category
Real-World Ideal Weight Examples
Example 1: Average Female with Medium Frame
Scenario: 25-year-old female, height 165 cm (5'5"), medium frame
- Height: 65 inches (5'5")
- Devine formula: 45.5 + 2.3 × (65-60) = 57 kg
- Frame adjustment: Medium = no change
- Healthy range: 54-60 kg (accounting for body variation)
- In pounds: Ideal ≈ 125 lb, range 119-132 lb
Example 2: Tall Male with Large Frame
Scenario: 30-year-old male, height 188 cm (6'2"), large frame
- Height: 74 inches (6'2")
- Devine formula: 50 + 2.3 × (74-60) = 82.2 kg
- Large frame: +10% adjustment = 90.4 kg
- Healthy range: 82-99 kg
- Taller individuals naturally weigh more while maintaining fitness
Example 3: Athlete vs. Formula Results
Scenario: 28-year-old female athlete, height 160 cm (5'3"), small frame, muscular
- Devine formula: 45.5 + 2.3 × (63-60) = 52.4 kg
- Small frame: -10% = 47.2 kg
- Actual weight: 50-55 kg (more than formula due to muscle)
- Body composition matters more than matching the exact number
Example 4: Weight Loss Goal Setting
Scenario: 40-year-old male, height 175 cm (5'9"), large frame, starting weight loss
- Robinson formula: 52 + 1.9 × (69-60) = 69.1 kg
- Large frame: +10% = 76 kg ideal
- Current: 95 kg | Target: 76 kg | To lose: 19 kg
- Safe rate: 0.5-1 kg/week = 4-8 months to goal
When to Use This Calculator
Best For:
- ✓ General weight goal setting
- ✓ Fitness and weight loss planning
- ✓ Comparing multiple formulas
- ✓ Understanding frame size influence
- ✓ Motivation for lifestyle changes
Limitations:
- ⚠ Not for athletes/very muscular people
- ⚠ Doesn't account for body composition
- ⚠ Results vary by formula (±10 lbs)
- ⚠ Not medical advice
- ⚠ Not for children or elderly
Frequently Asked Questions
Each formula was developed independently using different research populations. Devine (1974) is most common but Robinson refined it. Hamwi uses more gender differentiation. All are valid but produce results within ±5-10 lbs. Using multiple formulas gives you a realistic range rather than one rigid number, which is healthier since ideal weight depends on many individual factors.
Frame size affects ideal weight by approximately ±10%. Wrist measurement determines frame: Small frame means 10% less than calculated, medium frame is baseline, large frame means 10% more. For a 5'5" female, small frame might be 51 kg while large frame could be 63 kg—a significant 12 kg difference! Measure your wrist to determine your frame size.
No. These formulas assume average body composition (~15-20% body fat). Athletes with high muscle mass often weigh more than calculated while being very healthy. A muscular athlete might be 10-20 lbs heavier than "ideal weight" but have excellent fitness. For athletes, body composition analysis (DEXA, bioelectrical impedance) is more appropriate. Focus on fitness performance and health markers, not matching the formula.
Use the ideal weight range (not a single number) as a long-term goal. Aim for safe weight loss of 0.5-1 kg per week (1-2 lbs/week), which preserves muscle and is sustainable. Combine calorie deficit with strength training to lose fat while building muscle. Even if you don't reach the exact calculated weight, improvements in fitness, energy, and health markers matter most. Always consult healthcare providers for personalized guidance.
No, these formulas are for adults 18-65 years. Children use pediatric BMI percentiles based on age and gender. Elderly individuals (65+) have different body composition and health considerations. Age-related changes in muscle and bone density mean weight guidelines differ significantly. For children and elderly, consult healthcare providers for age-appropriate weight guidelines.