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About

The concept of "Ideal Body Weight" (IBW) was originally developed for determining drug dosages, not necessarily for aesthetic goals. However, these formulas have become the standard for estimating a healthy weight baseline based on skeletal height. Unlike BMI, which accounts for total mass, IBW formulas try to identify a target weight that is statistically associated with the lowest mortality rates.

Since no single body type exists, this tool calculates your IBW using four different respected medical algorithms. The variation between these results provides a realistic "target zone" rather than a single, rigid number. This helps account for differences in frame size and muscle mass.

IBW

Formulas

Most IBW formulas follow a base weight plus a specific weight for every inch of height over 5 feet.

Devine Formula (Male):

IBW = 50 + 2.3(Hin 60)

Devine Formula (Female):

IBW = 45.5 + 2.3(Hin 60)

Reference Data

Formula NameYearPrimary Use CaseMethodology (Male Base)
Devine Formula1974Standard for Drug Dosing50kg + 2.3kg per inch over 5ft
Robinson Formula1983Update to Devine52kg + 1.9kg per inch over 5ft
Miller Formula1983lean Mass Estimation56.2kg + 1.41kg per inch over 5ft
Hamwi Formula1964General Framework48kg + 2.7kg per inch over 5ft
BMI RangeN/AWHO Classification18.5 - 24.9 kg/m²

Frequently Asked Questions

The Devine formula is the most widely used in medical settings for dosing medications. However, the Robinson formula is often considered more accurate for modern populations. There is no 'perfect' formula, which is why looking at the average of all four gives the best general guideline.
No. These are linear equations based strictly on height and gender. They do not distinguish between fat and muscle. An athlete with high muscle mass may be calculated as 'overweight' by these standards, even if they are healthy. This is known as the 'limit of anthropometrics'.
Not necessarily. Being significantly below your IBW can indicate being underweight, which carries its own health risks including immune system deficiencies and osteoporosis. The 'Ideal' is a median target, not a maximum limit.
Biologically, women generally have less lean muscle mass and bone density than men of the same height. The formulas reflect these population averages from the mid-20th century.