Ideal Weight Calculator

Ideal weight refers to an estimated weight range that is considered healthy based on factors such as height, gender, age, and body frame. It's a general guide rather than a one-size-fits-all target.

Common Ideal Weight Formulas

Several formulas have been developed to estimate ideal weight. Each uses different parameters and may produce slightly different results.

Devine Formula (1974)

Robinson Formula (1983)

Miller Formula (1983)

Hamwi Formula (1964)

BMI-based Method

This formula calculates the weight that would give a BMI of 21.75, which is in the middle of the "normal" BMI range (18.5-24.9).

Body Frame Adjustment

Body frame size is an important factor in determining ideal weight. A person with a larger frame will naturally weigh more than someone of the same height with a smaller frame, even at the same level of body fat.

Frame Size	Adjustment
Small	Subtract 10% from base weight
Medium	Use base weight
Large	Add 10% to base weight

Determining Frame Size

Frame size can be estimated using wrist circumference in relation to height:

Gender	Small Frame	Medium Frame	Large Frame
Men	Wrist size < 17.5 cm	17.5 - 19.5 cm	> 19.5 cm
Women	Wrist size < 15.9 cm	15.9 - 17.7 cm	> 17.7 cm

Limitations of Ideal Weight Calculations

While ideal weight calculators provide useful guidelines, they have several limitations:

• They don't account for muscle mass (athletes may weigh more than calculated ideal weights).
• They don't consider age-related changes in body composition.
• Ethnic differences in body composition aren't fully addressed.
• Health status and metabolic factors aren't incorporated.
• The formulas were mostly developed decades ago and may not reflect current understandings of health.

Beyond Weight: A Holistic Approach

Rather than focusing solely on weight, consider these factors for overall health assessment:

• Body composition: The ratio of fat to muscle is more important than total weight.
• Waist circumference: Central body fat carries higher health risks.
• Metabolic health: Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels are key health indicators.
• Physical fitness: Cardiovascular fitness and strength are important health markers.
• Diet quality: Nutritional intake affects health regardless of weight.
• Lifestyle habits: Sleep quality, stress management, and other behaviors impact health.

Note: This calculator provides a general assessment. For specific health advice, consult with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized guidance based on your complete health profile.