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Ideal Body Weight Calculator

For accurate calculation, we need some basic info about you

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How to Use This Tool

Follow these simple steps to calculate your Ideal Body Weight (IBW):

Personal Information

1

Select Your Sex

Required for accurate calculation

Male
Female
Select your biological sex for accurate ideal body weight calculation
2

Enter Your Age

Age in years (2-120)

Formulas are intended for adults; results for <18 are estimates only
Age must be between 2 and 120 years
3

Enter Your Height

Choose your preferred unit

cm
ft/in
Height must be between 50-250 cm
Height must be between 1-8 feet

Weight & Calculation Settings

4

Current Weight (Optional)

For personalized advice

kg
lb
Weight must be between 10-300 kg
Weight must be between 20-660 lb
5

Choose Formula

Select calculation method

Devine: Most widely used medical standard
Robinson: Alternative clinical approach
Miller: Modern variation with refined coefficients
Hamwi: Traditional pharmaceutical reference
Note: Pediatric growth charts are recommended for those under 18; IBW calculations are less reliable for children and adolescents.

Your Results

Current Status

Healthy Range
You are within the healthy range

Ideal Body Weight

0.0 kg (0.0 lb)
Using Devine Formula

Healthy Weight Range

0.0 - 0.0 kg (0.0 - 0.0 lb)
Based on BMI 18.5 - 24.9

Personalized Advice

BMI Calculator
Check your Body Mass Index and category
Body Fat Percentage
Estimate body fat using US Navy method
BMR Calculator
Estimate your basal metabolic rate
TDEE Calculator
Total Daily Energy Expenditure estimate

Understanding Ideal Body Weight

Learn about the science behind IBW formulas and their clinical applications

Formula Comparison

Clinical Applications:

  • Devine: Most commonly used in medical settings and drug dosing calculations
  • Robinson: Often preferred for nutritional assessments and metabolic studies
  • Miller: Modern approach with updated coefficients for contemporary populations
  • Hamwi: Traditional pharmaceutical standard, still widely referenced
Health Implications

Why IBW Matters:

  • Reduces risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes
  • Improves joint health and mobility
  • Enhances energy levels and quality of life
  • Supports optimal metabolic function
  • May increase longevity and reduce disease risk
Important Limitations

IBW Formulas Don't Account For:

  • Muscle mass and body composition
  • Bone density variations
  • Ethnicity and genetic factors
  • Age-related changes in body composition
  • Athletic build or very muscular physiques
Medical Applications

Healthcare Uses:

  • Medication dosing calculations
  • Nutritional requirement assessments
  • Surgical risk evaluation
  • Respiratory therapy settings

Healthy Weight Management Strategies

Evidence-based approaches for achieving and maintaining optimal weight

Nutrition Fundamentals

Core Principles:

  • Caloric Balance: Match energy intake with expenditure for maintenance
  • Macronutrient Balance: 45-65% carbs, 20-35% fats, 10-35% protein
  • Whole Foods: Prioritize minimally processed, nutrient-dense options
  • Hydration: 8-10 glasses of water daily, more with exercise
  • Meal Timing: Regular eating patterns support metabolism
Exercise Guidelines

WHO Recommendations:

  • Cardio: 150-300 min moderate or 75-150 min vigorous weekly
  • Strength: 2+ days per week targeting all major muscle groups
  • Flexibility: Daily stretching and mobility work
  • Balance: Especially important for adults 65+
  • Progressive: Gradually increase intensity and duration
Lifestyle Factors

Supporting Healthy Weight:

  • Sleep: 7-9 hours nightly for optimal hormonal balance
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress disrupts weight regulation
  • Social Support: Community and accountability improve outcomes
  • Mindful Eating: Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues
  • Consistency: Small, sustainable changes over time
Monitoring Progress

Track Multiple Metrics:

  • Weight: Weekly weigh-ins at consistent times
  • Body Composition: More important than weight alone
  • Measurements: Waist, hip, and other key areas
  • Energy Levels: How you feel throughout the day
  • Health Markers: Blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar

Frequently Asked Questions

1) How is Ideal Body Weight (IBW) calculated?

IBW is calculated using height-based clinical formulas (Devine, Robinson, Miller, Hamwi). You select a formula, enter your height (and sex), and the tool computes your estimated ideal weight.

2) Which formula should I use?

Devine is the most commonly used in clinical contexts and is our default. Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi are valid alternatives. Differences are typically small; you can compare results to see which aligns with your goal.

3) Does IBW account for body composition?

No. IBW formulas do not account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution. For a fuller picture, consider using our Body Fat Percentage and BMI tools alongside IBW.

4) Is IBW appropriate for athletes or very muscular people?

IBW may underestimate healthy weight for muscular individuals. Athletes often exceed IBW due to higher lean mass. Use IBW as a guide, not a strict target.

5) Can children or teenagers use this calculator?

These formulas were developed for adults. For users under 18, results are less reliable. Pediatric growth charts and clinician guidance are recommended.

6) What units are supported?

Both metric (cm, kg) and imperial (ft/in, lb) are supported with simple toggles. The tool converts units automatically during calculations.

7) How is the healthy weight range calculated?

We derive a height-adjusted range using BMI 18.5–24.9 applied to your height in meters. This complements the IBW result and offers a practical target zone.

8) Why do I see different numbers across formulas?

Each formula uses slightly different coefficients and baselines. These were developed from different populations and time periods, so variation is expected and usually small.

9) Is my data saved or sent to a server?

Inputs may be stored locally in your browser (localStorage) to improve your experience. No data is sent to a server by this tool.

10) Can I use this value for medication dosing?

Do not use this tool as a substitute for professional medical judgment. Clinicians follow specific protocols and may use IBW alongside other metrics.

11) What if my height is below or above the input limits?

The input limits reflect practical adult ranges. Values outside typical ranges may reduce accuracy. Consult a healthcare professional for assessment.

12) How should I use my IBW result?

Use IBW as one input among many. Combine it with your healthy weight range, body fat percentage, medical history, and lifestyle factors to set realistic goals.

For educational purposes only. These calculations provide general estimates based on population averages. Individual ideal weight varies significantly based on body composition, muscle mass, bone density, and other factors. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice, especially if you have medical conditions, are pregnant, are an athlete, or are considering significant lifestyle changes.