Ideal Weight Calculator

Calculate your ideal body weight using Hamwi, Devine, Robinson, and Miller formulas.

Hamwi (Male): 106 + (6 x inches over 60); Devine (Male): 110 + (5 x inches over 60); Similar for females with different base values
Male, 5'10 inches (70 inches): Hamwi = 166 lbs, Devine = 160 lbs, Robinson = 157 lbs, Miller = 162 lbs, Average = 161 lbs

What is ideal body weight and how is it calculated?

Ideal body weight (IBW) is estimated healthy weight based on height and gender using medical formulas. Common formulas: Hamwi (1964): Simple, adds 5-6 lbs per inch over 5'0". Devine (1974): Most commonly used, drug dosing. Robinson (1983): Middle-ground estimate. Miller (1983): Most recent adjustment. Formulas give similar results (+/-5-10 lbs). Use average for best estimate. IBW used in medical settings but doesn't account for body composition or frame size.

Should I aim for my ideal body weight?

IBW is a guideline, not gospel. Better measures: Body composition (fat vs muscle), how you feel, health markers (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar), fitness level, energy. Muscular person may exceed IBW but be healthy. Sedentary person at IBW may have high body fat. Use IBW as reference point: Within +/-10% is reasonable for most people. Focus on sustainable healthy weight where you feel good and maintain easily, not arbitrary number from formula.

What if I have a large or small frame?

Frame size affects ideal weight: Small frame: -10% from IBW, Medium frame: Use IBW as is, Large frame: +10% from IBW. Measure frame: Wrap thumb and middle finger around opposite wrist. Fingers overlap = small, touch = medium, don't touch = large. Or measure wrist: Men <6.5"=small, 6.5-7.5"=medium, >7.5"=large. Women <5.5"=small, 5.5-6.5"=medium, >6.5"=large. Frame size can shift IBW +/-10-20 lbs legitimately.

How does ideal weight differ from BMI range?

Both estimate healthy weight from height but use different methods. BMI range: 18.5-24.9 BMI = wide weight range (129-174 lbs for 5'10"). IBW formulas: Single target weight (150-165 lbs for 5'10" male depending on formula). IBW tends to be middle of healthy BMI range. IBW more specific, BMI provides range. Use both: IBW as target, BMI range as acceptable zone. Body composition (fat %) more important than either.