Ideal Weight Calculator
Calculate your ideal body weight using multiple scientific formulas.
Average Ideal Weight
159.4 lbs
Formula Comparison
Most commonly used in medicine
Modified Devine formula
Most recent modification
Original formula from 1964
About This Calculator
"How much should I weigh for my height?" It's one of the most searched health questions online—and one of the most misunderstood. The concept of "ideal weight" has a complicated history, and the truth might surprise you.
Here's what most people don't know: The most popular ideal weight formula (Devine, 1974) was never meant for the general public. It was created to calculate medication dosages for anesthesia patients. Doctors needed a quick estimate of lean body mass, not a health target. Yet somehow, this formula became the gold standard that millions of people use to judge their bodies.
The uncomfortable reality? There is no single "ideal weight." A 5'10" person could be perfectly healthy at 160 lbs or 190 lbs depending on their muscle mass, bone structure, and body composition. The scale can't tell the difference between 10 lbs of muscle and 10 lbs of fat—but your health certainly can.
According to research, body composition matters far more than the number on the scale. Studies show that "metabolically healthy obesity" exists—people with higher weights but excellent blood markers—while "normal weight obesity" (skinny fat) carries real health risks despite a "healthy" BMI.
This Ideal Weight Calculator uses four scientifically-developed formulas (Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi) to give you a range of estimates rather than a single number. We'll also explain the limitations of each formula and what metrics actually matter for your health.
Remember: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson at 6'5" and 270 lbs would be classified as "obese" by most ideal weight charts. Arnold Schwarzenegger in his prime was "overweight." The scale tells only part of the story.
How to Use the Ideal Weight Calculator
- 1**Enter your height:** Input your height in feet and inches (or centimeters). Height is the primary factor in all ideal weight calculations.
- 2**Select your biological sex:** The formulas calculate differently for men and women due to average differences in muscle mass and bone density.
- 3**Estimate your frame size (optional):** Measure your wrist circumference to determine if you have a small, medium, or large frame—this adjusts the results.
- 4**Review your ideal weight range:** Instead of one number, you'll see estimates from four different scientific formulas to give you a realistic range.
- 5**Compare with BMI:** See where your current weight falls within BMI categories for additional context.
- 6**Consider the limitations:** Remember that these formulas don't account for muscle mass, athletic build, or individual body composition.
- 7**Focus on health metrics:** Use this as one data point among many—waist circumference, body fat percentage, and health markers matter more.
Formula
**Devine Formula (1974):**
Men: Ideal Weight = 110 lbs + 5.06 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
Women: Ideal Weight = 100 lbs + 5.06 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
**Robinson Formula (1983):**
Men: Ideal Weight = 114.4 lbs + 4.18 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
Women: Ideal Weight = 107.8 lbs + 3.74 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
**Miller Formula (1983):**
Men: Ideal Weight = 123.98 lbs + 2.99 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
Women: Ideal Weight = 117.93 lbs + 2.52 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
**Hamwi Formula (1964):**
Men: Ideal Weight = 106 lbs + 6 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
Women: Ideal Weight = 100 lbs + 5 lbs × (height in inches - 60)
**Frame Size Adjustment:**
- Small frame: Subtract 10%
- Large frame: Add 10%
**Example Calculation (5'10" Man, Medium Frame):**
| Formula | Calculation | Result |
|---------|-------------|--------|
| Devine | 110 + 5.06 × 10 | 161 lbs |
| Robinson | 114.4 + 4.18 × 10 | 156 lbs |
| Miller | 123.98 + 2.99 × 10 | 154 lbs |
| Hamwi | 106 + 6 × 10 | 166 lbs |
| **Average** | | **159 lbs** |
| **Range** | | **154-166 lbs** |These formulas estimate "ideal weight" based solely on height and sex. They were developed decades ago for specific clinical purposes (medication dosing, insurance tables) and have significant limitations. None of these formulas account for: - Muscle mass or athletic build - Bone density or frame size (without manual adjustment) - Age-related changes - Ethnic and genetic variations - Individual metabolic differences Use these calculations as rough estimates only. Your actual healthy weight is where you have good energy, healthy blood markers, and can maintain your weight sustainably. For most people, focusing on waist circumference, body fat percentage, and functional fitness provides better health guidance than any ideal weight formula.
The Four Major Ideal Weight Formulas
Multiple formulas exist because scientists disagree on the "right" way to estimate ideal weight. Here's what each formula calculates and why they differ:
Devine Formula (1974) — The Most Popular:
- Men: 110 lbs + 5.06 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Women: 100 lbs + 5.06 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Origin: Created for anesthesia medication dosing, not general health
- Limitation: Tends to underestimate for taller individuals
Robinson Formula (1983):
- Men: 114.4 lbs + 4.18 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Women: 107.8 lbs + 3.74 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Origin: Modified Devine formula based on Metropolitan Life tables
- Limitation: Still doesn't account for body composition
Miller Formula (1983):
- Men: 123.98 lbs + 2.99 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Women: 117.93 lbs + 2.52 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Origin: Adjusted for more realistic weights at extreme heights
- Best for: Taller individuals
Hamwi Formula (1964) — The Original:
- Men: 106 lbs + 6 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Women: 100 lbs + 5 lbs per inch over 5 feet
- Origin: Earliest widely-used formula
- Limitation: Can overestimate for shorter individuals
| Height | Devine | Robinson | Miller | Hamwi | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5'4" M | 130 | 131 | 136 | 130 | 132 lbs |
| 5'8" M | 151 | 148 | 148 | 154 | 150 lbs |
| 6'0" M | 171 | 165 | 160 | 178 | 169 lbs |
| 5'2" F | 110 | 115 | 123 | 110 | 115 lbs |
| 5'6" F | 130 | 130 | 133 | 130 | 131 lbs |
| 5'10" F | 151 | 145 | 143 | 150 | 147 lbs |
Ideal Weight Charts by Height and Frame Size
Frame size significantly impacts your healthy weight range. Someone with broad shoulders and thick wrists naturally carries more weight than someone with a narrow frame.
How to Measure Your Frame Size (Wrist Method):
| Wrist Circumference | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|
| Small Frame | Under 6" | Under 6.5" |
| Medium Frame | 6" - 6.25" | 6.5" - 7.5" |
| Large Frame | Over 6.25" | Over 7.5" |
Men's Ideal Weight by Height and Frame:
| Height | Small Frame | Medium Frame | Large Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5'4" | 122-132 lbs | 130-145 lbs | 140-160 lbs |
| 5'6" | 130-142 lbs | 138-155 lbs | 148-170 lbs |
| 5'8" | 138-152 lbs | 147-165 lbs | 158-180 lbs |
| 5'10" | 146-162 lbs | 155-175 lbs | 168-192 lbs |
| 6'0" | 154-172 lbs | 165-185 lbs | 178-205 lbs |
| 6'2" | 162-182 lbs | 175-198 lbs | 188-218 lbs |
| 6'4" | 172-194 lbs | 185-210 lbs | 200-232 lbs |
Women's Ideal Weight by Height and Frame:
| Height | Small Frame | Medium Frame | Large Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5'0" | 95-107 lbs | 102-117 lbs | 112-128 lbs |
| 5'2" | 102-115 lbs | 110-126 lbs | 120-138 lbs |
| 5'4" | 110-123 lbs | 118-136 lbs | 128-148 lbs |
| 5'6" | 118-132 lbs | 127-146 lbs | 137-158 lbs |
| 5'8" | 126-142 lbs | 136-156 lbs | 146-170 lbs |
| 5'10" | 135-152 lbs | 145-168 lbs | 158-182 lbs |
These ranges combine multiple formula estimates adjusted for frame size.
Why Ideal Weight Formulas Are Flawed
Before you obsess over hitting a number, understand the serious limitations of all ideal weight formulas:
Problem 1: They Don't Measure Body Composition A 180 lb person at 12% body fat (athlete) is healthier than a 160 lb person at 30% body fat (sedentary). The formulas can't tell the difference.
Problem 2: They Were Created for Limited Populations
- Devine: Based on clinical patients, not healthy adults
- Metropolitan Life Tables: Based on 1950s insurance data
- Most formulas: Primarily studied white, middle-class Americans
Problem 3: They Ignore Muscle Mass
| Person | Weight | Ideal Weight (Devine) | Reality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedentary man 5'10" | 175 lbs | 161 lbs | May need weight loss |
| Athlete man 5'10" | 190 lbs | 161 lbs | Very healthy |
| Bodybuilder 5'10" | 210 lbs | 161 lbs | Elite fitness level |
Problem 4: They Don't Account for Age As we age, some weight gain is normal and even protective. Adults over 65 with slightly higher BMIs often have better health outcomes.
Problem 5: Ethnic and Genetic Variations Different populations have different body compositions. Asian populations may face health risks at lower BMIs, while some ethnicities naturally carry more muscle mass.
The Real Danger: Chasing an "ideal weight" that doesn't match your body type can lead to:
- Unnecessary dieting
- Eating disorders
- Loss of muscle mass
- Metabolic damage
- Poor self-image despite good health
Better Metrics Than Scale Weight
If ideal weight formulas are flawed, what should you measure instead? Here are the metrics that actually predict health:
1. Waist Circumference (Most Predictive) Belly fat (visceral fat) is strongly linked to disease risk.
| Risk Level | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Low Risk | Under 37" | Under 31.5" |
| Moderate | 37-40" | 31.5-35" |
| High Risk | Over 40" | Over 35" |
2. Waist-to-Height Ratio Your waist should be less than half your height.
- 5'10" person: waist should be under 35 inches
- Simple rule: Keep your waist under half your height
3. Body Fat Percentage
| Category | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 2-5% | 10-13% |
| Athletes | 6-13% | 14-20% |
| Fitness | 14-17% | 21-24% |
| Average | 18-24% | 25-31% |
| Obese | 25%+ | 32%+ |
4. Blood Markers (Most Important)
- Fasting glucose: Under 100 mg/dL
- Blood pressure: Under 120/80
- Triglycerides: Under 150 mg/dL
- HDL cholesterol: Over 40 (men), Over 50 (women)
5. Functional Fitness Markers
- Can you climb stairs without getting winded?
- Can you get off the floor without using hands?
- How many push-ups can you do?
- Can you walk a mile comfortably?
Key insight: Someone at their "ideal weight" with high body fat, large waist, and poor blood markers is less healthy than someone 20 lbs "overweight" who exercises, has low body fat, and excellent bloodwork.
Healthy Weight vs. Ideal Weight: The Difference
There's an important distinction between "ideal weight" (a formula calculation) and "healthy weight" (where your body functions optimally).
Your Healthy Weight Is Where You:
- Have good energy throughout the day
- Sleep well
- Can perform physical activities you enjoy
- Have healthy blood markers
- Maintain weight without extreme restriction
- Feel strong and capable
Signs You're NOT at a Healthy Weight:
- Constant fatigue
- Joint pain from excess weight
- Poor sleep quality
- Abnormal blood test results
- Difficulty with daily activities
- Shortness of breath with light exertion
The Set Point Theory: Your body has a natural weight range it defends, typically a 10-20 lb window. Fighting against your set point requires constant effort and often backfires through:
- Metabolic adaptation (lower calorie burn)
- Increased hunger hormones
- Muscle loss
- Eventual weight regain (often more than lost)
A Sustainable Approach:
- Focus on behaviors, not the scale
- Eat mostly whole foods
- Exercise for strength and function
- Get adequate sleep
- Manage stress
- Let your weight settle naturally
The 5% Rule: Research shows that losing just 5% of your body weight (if overweight) produces significant health benefits. A 200 lb person losing 10 lbs sees improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol—even if they don't reach "ideal weight."
Ideal Weight for Different Body Types
Body type (somatotype) affects how weight is distributed and where you might fall in the "ideal" range:
Ectomorph (Naturally Lean)
- Characteristics: Narrow shoulders, long limbs, fast metabolism
- Weight tends to: Fall at or below formula estimates
- Challenge: Gaining muscle and weight
- Ideal weight: Often at lower end of range
- Example: Distance runners, fashion models
Mesomorph (Naturally Athletic)
- Characteristics: Broad shoulders, narrow waist, gains muscle easily
- Weight tends to: Exceed formula estimates due to muscle
- Challenge: Cutting weight for sports (often unnecessary)
- Ideal weight: Often 10-15% above formula range
- Example: Natural athletes, gymnasts
Endomorph (Naturally Stocky)
- Characteristics: Wider hips, stores fat easily, shorter limbs
- Weight tends to: Fall above formula estimates
- Challenge: Losing fat while maintaining muscle
- Ideal weight: Focus on body composition over scale weight
- Example: Powerlifters, football linemen
Most People: A Combination Few people are pure ectomorph, mesomorph, or endomorph. Most are combinations:
- Ecto-mesomorph: Lean but can build muscle
- Endo-mesomorph: Athletic but holds some fat
The Takeaway: If you're mesomorphic or endomorphic, the standard "ideal weight" formulas will likely underestimate your healthy weight. Use body fat percentage and health markers instead.
The History of Ideal Weight Standards
Understanding where "ideal weight" standards came from reveals why they're so problematic:
1942-1943: Metropolitan Life Insurance Tables
- First widely-used "ideal weight" charts
- Based on policyholders who lived longest
- Problem: Mostly affluent white Americans
- Legacy: Still referenced today despite limitations
1964: Hamwi Formula
- Dr. George Hamwi created a simple calculation
- Used for quick clinical estimates
- Problem: No scientific validation study
- Legacy: Still taught in medical schools
1974: Devine Formula
- Dr. B.J. Devine created it for drug dosing
- Specifically for anesthesia calculations
- Problem: Never intended for general health use
- Legacy: Became the most-used formula worldwide
1983: Robinson and Miller Formulas
- Attempts to correct Devine's limitations
- Based on actuarial data
- Problem: Still don't account for body composition
- Legacy: Used as alternatives to Devine
1998: NIH Obesity Guidelines
- BMI becomes the official standard
- Replaced ideal weight in medical settings
- Problem: BMI has its own limitations
- Legacy: Ongoing debate about best metrics
What We've Learned: Each generation created "ideal weight" standards based on available data, cultural norms, and specific purposes. None were designed as universal health targets, yet that's how they're used today.
Current Consensus: No single formula can define "ideal weight." Health is multifactorial, and body diversity is natural. The shift in medicine is toward health behaviors and outcomes rather than arbitrary weight targets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Treat ideal weight as a range of 15-20 lbs, not a single magic number. Your body naturally fluctuates, and being 5 lbs above or below means nothing.
- 💡Measure your waist circumference monthly—it predicts health better than scale weight. Men: under 40", Women: under 35" is the goal.
- 💡If you strength train, expect to weigh more than formula estimates. Muscle is denser than fat—a "heavy" athletic weight is healthier than a light sedentary one.
- 💡Weigh yourself at the same time daily (morning, after bathroom) and look at weekly averages. Daily weight fluctuates 2-5 lbs based on water and food.
- 💡Focus on body composition changes, not just weight. Take progress photos monthly—the mirror tells a different story than the scale.
- 💡Get annual bloodwork done. Healthy cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar matter far more than hitting an ideal weight number.
- 💡Consider your frame size when evaluating weight. A large-framed person at their "ideal weight" may be unhealthily thin.
- 💡Avoid comparing your ideal weight to others—height, frame, muscle mass, and genetics all create individual variation.
- 💡If you have been yo-yo dieting, your metabolism may need time to heal before weight loss is sustainable. Consider maintaining for 6-12 months.
- 💡Your healthy weight is one you can maintain without obsessive restriction. If you need to starve to stay at a weight, it is not ideal for you.
- 💡Age-adjust your expectations. Slightly higher weights are protective after 65, and some weight gain with age is natural and healthy.
- 💡Ask your doctor about your health metrics rather than ideal weight. "Am I healthy?" is a better question than "Am I the right weight?"
Frequently Asked Questions
Your ideal weight depends on multiple factors beyond height: frame size, muscle mass, age, and body composition. For general reference, a 5'6" man might have an ideal weight range of 140-170 lbs depending on build, while a 5'6" woman might range from 120-155 lbs. However, these are estimates—your actual healthy weight is where you have good energy, healthy blood markers, and can maintain your weight without extreme restriction.
