What is considered a healthy weight?

A healthy weight is not a single number but a weight range that is statistically associated with the lowest risk of developing chronic health problems like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This range corresponds to a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9.

Why do the formulas give different ideal weights?

The Hamwi, Devine, Robinson, and Miller formulas were created at different times for different purposes, often to calculate medication dosages. Their mathematical models vary slightly, which results in different 'ideal' weight estimates. This is why experts recommend focusing on the healthy weight 'range' provided by BMI rather than a single number from one formula.

Is BMI the best way to measure healthy weight?

BMI is a simple and widely used screening tool, but it has limitations. It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so a very muscular person could have a high BMI but be very healthy. It's best used as part of a larger assessment that includes waist circumference, body fat percentage, and overall lifestyle factors.

How does age affect my healthy weight?

While the core healthy weight ranges (based on BMI) don't typically change for adults, body composition does. As people age, they tend to lose muscle and gain fat. Therefore, an older adult might need to focus more on strength training and maintaining a weight at the lower end of their healthy range to stay well.

Healthy Weight Calculator

Discover your ideal weight for optimal health based on trusted formulas.

Age (2-120)

Gender

Male Female

Height (feet)

(inches)

Current Weight (lbs) (Optional, for BMI)

Your Results

Healthy Weight Range (BMI 18.5-24.9)

Ideal Weight by Different Formulas:

G.J. Hamwi Formula (1964)--
B.J. Devine Formula (1974)--
J.D. Robinson Formula (1983)--
D.R. Miller Formula (1983)--

Understanding Your Healthy Weight

A "healthy weight" isn't just one number—it's a range that promotes optimal health and lowers your risk for chronic conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. While ideal body weight can be a complex topic, this calculator simplifies it by using established scientific and medical formulas. The primary goal is to empower you with information for long-term well-being, not just to meet an aesthetic goal.

How This Calculator Determines Your Ideal Weight

Our tool gives you a comprehensive picture by using two distinct, trusted methods to calculate what you should weigh:

Healthy BMI Range: The most common method used by healthcare professionals is the Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered the healthy range for most adults. Our calculator first determines the exact weight range in pounds or kilograms that corresponds to this healthy BMI zone for your specific height.
Specific Ideal Weight Formulas: To give you a more nuanced view, the calculator also shows your ideal weight according to four different popular formulas. You can see how estimates from Hamwi, Devine, Robinson, and Miller compare. This highlights why it's best to think of your healthy weight as a range, as even scientific formulas provide slightly different results.

Important Considerations Beyond the Numbers

Remember, any online calculator is an estimation tool. It provides an excellent starting point, but it doesn't see the whole picture. Key factors to consider include:

Body Composition (Muscle vs. Fat): These formulas cannot distinguish between a pound of muscle and a pound of fat. A bodybuilder might have a high BMI and be classified as "overweight" while being perfectly healthy and lean. To understand this better, consider using our Body Fat Calculator.
Body Frame Size: A person with a larger bone structure may naturally and healthily weigh more than someone with a smaller frame of the same height.
Waist Circumference: Where you store fat is also critical. Excess abdominal fat, even if you're in a normal BMI range, can increase health risks.
Lifestyle and Habits: A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and good energy levels are often more important indicators of health than the number on the scale. To help with your diet, our Macro Calculator is an excellent resource for balancing nutrients.

Use this calculator as a guide to set informed, realistic health goals. For personalized medical advice or if you have health concerns, always consult a qualified healthcare provider.