Ideal Weight Calculator
Calculate your ideal weight based on height and gender using multiple formulas. This calculator provides estimates from different methods to give you a comprehensive view.
How could this calculator be better?
We're always looking to improve our tools. Here are some ideas we're considering:
- Add more ideal weight calculation formulas
- Include adjustments for age and body frame size
- Add visual representation of weight ranges
- Include personalized recommendations based on results
- Add comparison with average weights by country/region
Email us at yoursmartcalculator@gmail.com with your suggestions!
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Quick Facts
- •Ideal weight formulas were developed primarily for medication dosage calculations
- •These formulas don't account for age, body composition, or frame size
- •The BMI healthy range is 18.5-24.9 kg/m²
- •Weight is just one factor in overall health assessment
Understanding Ideal Weight
What is Ideal Weight?
Ideal weight refers to a weight range that is associated with optimal health outcomes based on a person's height and sometimes other factors like gender and age. It's important to note that "ideal weight" is a somewhat simplified concept, as health is influenced by many factors beyond weight alone.
This calculator uses several established formulas to estimate ideal weight based on height and gender. Each formula was developed for different purposes, primarily for medication dosage calculations, and they may yield slightly different results.
Remember that these are general guidelines, and individual factors like body composition, muscle mass, bone density, and overall health should be considered when interpreting the results.
Ideal Weight Formulas
This calculator uses four common formulas to estimate ideal weight:
- Robinson Formula (1983):
Men: 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch over 5 feet - Miller Formula (1983):
Men: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch over 5 feet - Devine Formula (1974):
Men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet - Hamwi Formula (1964):
Men: 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet
BMI and Ideal Weight
Body Mass Index (BMI) is another common method used to assess weight status. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is generally considered to be in the healthy range. This calculator also provides a weight range corresponding to this healthy BMI range based on your height.
While BMI is a useful screening tool, it has limitations. It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, nor does it account for factors like age, gender, ethnicity, or body composition. Athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI despite having low body fat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do different formulas give different results?
Each formula was developed at different times and for different purposes, primarily for medication dosage calculations. They use slightly different coefficients and were based on different population samples. The variation in results highlights that ideal weight is not a precise number but rather a range.
Should I try to achieve exactly my calculated ideal weight?
Not necessarily. These calculations provide general guidelines, not strict targets. Your optimal weight depends on many individual factors including age, muscle mass, bone density, body composition, and overall health. It's best to focus on healthy habits rather than a specific number on the scale.
Do these formulas account for age or body frame?
No, these traditional formulas don't account for age or body frame size. They only consider height and gender. As people age, their body composition naturally changes, and someone with a larger frame may naturally weigh more than someone with a smaller frame at the same height.
Which formula is most accurate?
There is no single "most accurate" formula, as each has its limitations. The average of all formulas provides a reasonable estimate for most people. However, for a more comprehensive assessment of healthy weight, consider consulting with healthcare professionals who can take into account your individual circumstances.
Is being outside the ideal weight range unhealthy?
Not necessarily. Weight is just one factor in overall health. Many people can be healthy at weights outside their calculated "ideal" range. Factors like physical activity, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and genetics all play important roles in health. Focus on overall healthy habits rather than just weight.