Ideal Body Weight Calculator
Calculate your ideal body weight based on height and sex using the Devine formula.
What Is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal body weight (IBW) on this page is a Devine-formula estimate from height and sex. It was originally developed for medication dosing and is used here as a reference figure, not a diagnosis of optimal health or a personalized weight target.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your sex — Choose Male or Female from the dropdown.
- Enter your height — Choose centimetres or feet and inches, then enter your height.
- Click "Calculate" — The tool shows your ideal body weight in kilograms and pounds.
How Ideal Body Weight Is Calculated
This calculator uses the Devine formula:
- Male: IBW = 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet (60 inches)
- Female: IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 5 feet (60 inches)
Note: 1 inch = 2.54 cm. The Devine formula is designed for adults 152 cm (5 ft) and taller.
Ideal Body Weight Reference Table
| Height | Male IBW (kg) | Female IBW (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 152.4 cm (5'0") | 50.0 | 45.5 |
| 157.48 cm (5'2") | 54.6 | 50.1 |
| 162.56 cm (5'4") | 59.2 | 54.7 |
| 167.64 cm (5'6") | 63.8 | 59.3 |
| 172.72 cm (5'8") | 68.4 | 63.9 |
| 177.8 cm (5'10") | 73.0 | 68.5 |
| 182.88 cm (6'0") | 77.6 | 73.1 |
| 187.96 cm (6'2") | 82.2 | 77.7 |
| 193.04 cm (6'4") | 86.8 | 82.3 |
Understanding the Results
- Devine formula: Developed for medication dosing, now commonly used for IBW.
- Body composition matters — Muscle weighs more than fat.
- Individual variation — Healthy weight varies by body type, frame size, and muscle mass.
- BMI comparison — Use alongside BMI for a more complete picture.
Limitations of Ideal Body Weight
- Doesn't account for muscle mass — Athletes may weigh more due to muscle.
- Doesn't consider body frame — People with larger frames may have higher healthy weights.
- Not a medical diagnosis — Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
- Height-range limitation — The Devine formula is designed for adults 152+ cm tall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Devine formula?
The Devine formula was developed in 1974 for medication dosing. It calculates ideal body weight based on height and sex: Male: 50 + 2.3 × (inches over 5 ft); Female: 45.5 + 2.3 × (inches over 5 ft). It remains one of the most widely used IBW formulas today.
Is ideal body weight the same as a healthy weight?
Not exactly. Ideal body weight is a single estimate based on height and sex. A healthy weight range is usually broader and considers body composition, age, muscle mass, and overall health. Think of IBW as a reference point, not a strict target.
Is this result a weight-loss target?
No. The Devine estimate is a height-and-sex reference, not a diet goal or a medically individualized target. It does not calculate how much weight to lose or how quickly to lose it.
How does muscle mass affect ideal weight?
Muscle is denser than fat, so athletes and bodybuilders often weigh more than the calculated ideal weight while being very healthy. For them, body fat percentage is a better indicator than weight alone.
Should I use IBW or BMI?
Both are useful. BMI gives a range based on weight and height; IBW gives a single target weight. Use them together with body fat percentage and waist circumference for the most complete picture of your health.
Does the Devine formula work for children?
No — the Devine formula is designed for adults. Children and teens need age- and sex-specific growth charts and percentiles from a pediatrician.