Health & Body Composition
Ideal Weight Calculator: Devine Formula + Healthy BMI Range
What should you weigh for your height? Our Ideal Weight Calculator uses the clinically validated Devine formula (and a healthy BMI range) to give you a personalized target. Whether you're setting fitness goals or simply curious, this tool provides a reliable reference.
What Is an Ideal Weight Calculator?
An ideal weight calculator estimates the weight associated with the lowest mortality risk for a given height and gender. Our calculator uses the Devine formula, developed by Dr. B.J. Devine in 1974 for drug dosing, and later adopted as a general health reference. It also shows the healthy BMI weight range (18.5–24.9 kg/m²) so you see a realistic spectrum.
How to Use This Ideal Weight Calculator
- Select your gender (male or female).
- Enter your height in centimeters (cm).
- Optionally, choose your frame size (small, medium, large) – this adjusts the result by ±10%.
- Click “Calculate Ideal Weight”.
- View your ideal weight in kg, plus the healthy BMI range for your height.
The Devine formula for men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet. For women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet. Our calculator converts cm to feet/inches automatically.
Who Needs an Ideal Weight Calculator?
- Individuals setting realistic weight loss or gain targets.
- Health professionals providing lifestyle advice.
- Fitness enthusiasts comparing against population norms.
- People with a family history of obesity or eating disorders.
- Life insurance applicants (sometimes used in underwriting).
Understanding Your Results
The calculator shows two numbers:
- Devine formula ideal weight – a single number that corresponds to a BMI of ~22 for average height, considered the healthiest weight for longevity.
- Healthy BMI range – the full weight range that corresponds to BMI 18.5–24.9. This gives you flexibility: any weight within that range is considered healthy.
If you selected a frame size, the Devine weight is adjusted: small frame subtracts 10%, large frame adds 10%. This accounts for natural bone structure variation.
Limitations of Ideal Weight Formulas
No single formula fits everyone. Muscle mass, bone density, ethnicity, and age all affect what is “ideal” for you. The Devine formula was originally intended for medical dosing, not as a strict beauty standard. Use it as a starting point, and combine with body fat percentage or waist circumference for a complete picture.
“Ideal weight charts are guides, not rules. A fit athlete may weigh more than the formula but have very low body fat.”
Alternative Formulas: Hamwi and Robinson
Other common ideal weight calculators include:
- Hamwi (1964): Men – 48 kg for first 152 cm + 2.7 kg per extra cm; Women – 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per extra cm.
- Robinson (1983): Men – 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch >5ft; Women – 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch >5ft.
Our calculator uses Devine because it's the most widely cited in medical literature. The healthy BMI range offers a broader evidence-based target.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Health & Fitness Tools
Final Thoughts: Use It as a Guide, Not a Rule
Your ideal weight calculator result is a data point, not a verdict. It should align with how you feel, your energy levels, and your medical history. Use it alongside body fat percentage and waist circumference for a complete wellness picture. Bookmark this page and revisit as your body changes.
Remember: the healthiest weight is the one you can maintain while enjoying a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and good mental health.