Healthy Weight Calculator
Find your ideal weight range based on your height and gender. This free calculator uses standard BMI ranges and medical formulas (Devine, Hamwi) to estimate your healthy weight.
How to Find Your Healthy Weight
There is no single "perfect" weight for everyone. This healthy weight calculator provides a range based on the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is the standard tool used by health organizations like the WHO and CDC to screen for weight categories.
We also provide results from older "Ideal Body Weight" (IBW) formulas like Devine and Hamwi. These specific numbers were originally developed for calculating medication dosages but are often used to estimate a weight target for a medium-framed person.
Healthy Weight BMI Range
The primary result shown is the weight range where your BMI falls between 18.5 and 24.9.
- Below Range: Considered underweight.
- In Range: Associated with the lowest risk of weight-related health issues.
- Above Range: Categorized as overweight or obese.
Understanding the Formulas
Why do the specific formulas give different numbers?
- Devine Formula (1974): The most common formula used by pharmacists. It is simple but might underestimate weight for short women.
- Hamwi Formula (1964): Very popular for quick estimates (100 lbs for 5ft + 5 lbs/inch).
- Robinson (1983) & Miller (1983): Adjustments made to the Devine formula to better fit modern population data.
Limitations
These calculators only consider height and gender. They do not account for:
- Muscle Mass: Athletes may be heavier than the "ideal" range due to muscle, which is healthy.
- Body Frame: People with larger bone structures may naturally weigh more.
- Age: Older adults may be healthier at a slightly higher weight.
For a more detailed analysis of your body composition, check out our Body Fat Calculator or calculate your BMI Score directly.
? Frequently Asked Questions
The BMI Range (18.5 - 24.9) is the best general target for health. The specific formula numbers are just estimates for an 'ideal' center point, but falling anywhere within the healthy BMI range is excellent.
The healthy weight range spans about 30-40 pounds because it accommodates different body types, bone densities, and muscle mass levels.
These formulas do not factor in age. However, some research suggests that slightly higher BMIs (25-27) may be protective for older adults (over 65).
Likely not. If you have significant muscle mass, you may weigh more than the 'healthy' range but still be very healthy. Body fat percentage is a better metric for athletes.