The Ideal Weight Calculator estimates a healthy target weight range based on your height, gender, and frame size — using established medical formulas. Use it as a general reference point, not a strict target.

How to Use This Calculator

1. Enter your height in feet/inches or centimeters.
2. Select your gender.
3. Select your frame size (small, medium, or large) — see the guide below.
4. Click Calculate.

How to Determine Your Frame Size

Wrap your thumb and index finger around your wrist at the narrowest point:

• Small frame: Fingers overlap
• Medium frame: Fingers just touch
• Large frame: Fingers don’t reach each other

The Formulas Behind Ideal Weight

Several formulas exist for estimating ideal weight. The most widely cited are:

• Hamwi (1964): Men: 106 lb for first 5 ft + 6 lb per inch above. Women: 100 lb + 5 lb per inch above 5 ft. ±10% for frame size.
• Devine (1974): Men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch above 5 ft. Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch.
• Robinson (1983): Men: 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch. Women: 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch.
• Miller (1983): Men: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch. Women: 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch.

Each was developed for different populations and purposes. We show a range across formulas — if you fall within any of them, you are likely at a healthy weight.

Limitations of Ideal Weight Charts

Ideal weight formulas were developed decades ago for clinical purposes (mainly drug dosing). They don’t account for muscle mass, ethnicity, age-related changes, or individual metabolic differences. Athletes, bodybuilders, and elderly individuals may have very different healthy weight ranges than these formulas suggest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I try to reach my “ideal” weight?

The ideal weight range is a useful reference, not a strict goal. More important than hitting a specific number is maintaining a healthy lifestyle — regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep. Many people are metabolically healthy at weights outside the “ideal” range.

Does ideal weight change with age?

The classic formulas don’t adjust for age, but research suggests slightly higher body weight is protective in older adults (the “obesity paradox”). For adults over 65, the BMI range associated with lowest mortality shifts slightly higher.