Ideal Body Weight (IBW) Calculator
Discover your ideal weight range based on leading clinical medical formulas and World Health Organization healthy BMI criteria.
Physical Stats
Clinical Formulas Comparison
How is it calculated?
\text{Devine (Male)}: 50.0 + 2.3 \times (\text{Height (in)} - 60) \quad | \quad \text{Devine (Female)}: 45.5 + 2.3 \times (\text{Height (in)} - 60)Computes ideal body mass across four clinical standards (Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi) along with the WHO 18.5-24.9 BMI range.
Worked Examples
Male: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
Devine IBW is 70.7 kg, Robinson is 69.1 kg, Miller is 68.9 kg, Hamwi is 72.3 kg. Consensus average is ~70.2 kg.
Scientific Guide to Ideal Body Weight (IBW) Formulas & Healthy Ranges
The History and Purpose of Ideal Body Weight Equations
The concept of Ideal Body Weight (IBW) originated in clinical medicine during the 20th century to calculate accurate pharmacologic drug dosages, ventilator volumes, and nutritional support formulas rather than relying on total weight in patients with fluid retention or obesity.
Over time, formulas such as Devine (1974), Robinson (1983), Miller (1983), and Hamwi (1964) became widely adopted in dietetics and sports science as standardized baselines for healthy stature-to-mass proportions.
Comparing Devine, Robinson, and Miller Formulas
The Devine formula is the most ubiquitous in clinical pharmacology, calculating a baseline of 50 kg (men) or 45.5 kg (women) for a 5-foot frame plus 2.3 kg per additional inch. Robinson modified this slightly upwards for empirical population alignment.
Miller introduced a higher baseline and lower incremental weight per inch, making it particularly suitable for individuals with broader bone structures or slight mesomorphic builds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most accurate formula to use?
How does muscle mass affect ideal body weight?
Does age change your ideal body weight?
Results are estimates and should not be considered financial advice.