Ideal Weight Calculator
Enter your height and sex to see weight indicators from the Devine formula and the healthy BMI range.
What is ideal weight?
Ideal weight is a general idea of the weight band considered healthy for your height. There is no single number for everyone; age, sex, bone structure and muscle mass all change it. This tool gives two separate indicators and suggests reading them together.
The two methods
- Devine formula: starts at 50 kg for men and 45.5 kg for women, adding 2.3 kg for each inch over 60 inches (152.4 cm).
- Healthy BMI range: BMI = weight ÷ height² (metres). The World Health Organization treats 18.5-24.9 as normal; the tool shows the weights that correspond to this range for your height.
Height and weight chart
| Height (cm) | Devine (men) | Devine (women) | Healthy BMI range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 155 | 52.4 kg | 47.9 kg | 44.4 – 59.8 kg |
| 160 | 56.9 kg | 52.4 kg | 47.4 – 63.7 kg |
| 165 | 61.4 kg | 56.9 kg | 50.4 – 67.8 kg |
| 170 | 65.9 kg | 61.4 kg | 53.5 – 72.0 kg |
| 175 | 70.5 kg | 66.0 kg | 56.7 – 76.3 kg |
| 180 | 75.0 kg | 70.5 kg | 59.9 – 80.7 kg |
| 185 | 79.5 kg | 75.0 kg | 63.3 – 85.2 kg |
| 190 | 84.0 kg | 79.5 kg | 66.8 – 89.9 kg |
Worked example
For a man 175 cm tall: 175 ÷ 2.54 = 68.9 inches; 50 + 2.3 × (68.9 − 60) = about 70.5 kg. For the BMI range, 1.75² = 3.0625; the lower limit is 18.5 × 3.0625 = 56.7 kg and the upper 24.9 × 3.0625 = 76.3 kg. So the Devine value sits inside the healthy range.
Reading the result
- Being inside the range is no guarantee of good health, and being outside does not by itself mean illness.
- BMI can overstate weight in muscular people, while low muscle mass can be a problem in older adults.
- Waist size, blood tests and overall health matter at least as much as weight.
What this tool does not do
It gives no medical advice or weight target. If you want to gain or lose weight, talk to a doctor or dietitian who knows your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How is ideal weight calculated?
The tool gives two indicators: the Devine formula (men 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch over 60 inches; women 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg) and the weight range matching the World Health Organization's normal BMI range of 18.5-24.9.
Why a range instead of one number?
Healthy weight varies from person to person. Bone structure, muscle mass and age all matter. The BMI range is a more realistic band, while the Devine formula is a single reference point.
Does it apply to athletes?
BMI can mislead in people with high muscle mass, since muscle is denser than fat. Body composition measurements are more informative for athletes.
Is this medical advice?
No. It is a general indicator. Talk to a doctor or dietitian when setting a weight goal.