Body & Fitness

Ideal Body Weight Calculator

Estimate ideal body weight using common clinical formulas (Devine and others).

By Calculator Suite Pro Editorial Team | Last updated March 18, 2026

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IBW Range

68.7 - 72.0 kg

Devine

70.5 kg

Hamwi

72.0 kg

Robinson

68.9 kg

Miller

68.7 kg

Note

Reference

Not a strict target.

On this page

Jump to examples, FAQs, and detailed explanations without endless scrolling.

Direct answer

Ideal Body Weight Calculator gives an instant result from your inputs. Ideal body weight (IBW) is an estimate of a target weight based on height and sex using common clinical formulas. It is often used for reference in medical settings and general planning. Formula snapshot: IBW formulas estimate a baseline weight at 5 feet, then add weight per inch above that. Example: Sex: Men, Height: 180cm -> IBW estimate shown in kg.

About this calculator

Ideal body weight (IBW) is an estimate of a target weight based on height and sex using common clinical formulas. It is often used for reference in medical settings and general planning.

This calculator shows a practical IBW estimate using well-known formulas. The result is not a strict goal for everyone because body composition, frame size, and individual factors vary.

If you want to compare lean mass vs fat mass, use the Lean Body Mass or Body Fat Percentage calculators too.

How it works

A quick explanation of the logic behind the results, so you can trust what you see.

  • IBW formulas estimate a baseline weight at 5 feet, then add weight per inch above that.
  • Different formulas (Devine, Robinson, Miller, Hamwi) can produce slightly different values.
  • This calculator reports multiple estimates so you can see a reasonable range.
  • IBW is often used for medication dosing references and general screening, not as a fitness 'perfect weight'.

Formula used

These are the core formulas and logic rules used by this calculator.

  • IBW formulas estimate a baseline weight at 5 feet, then add weight per inch above that.
  • Different formulas (Devine, Robinson, Miller, Hamwi) can produce slightly different values.

Common use cases

Below are common real-world scenarios where this calculator is useful.

  • Reference weight estimate by height
  • General goal setting for weight management
  • Educational use (learning IBW formulas)
  • Checking how far current weight is from a reference estimate
  • Comparing multiple formulas quickly
  • Health/fitness planning conversations
  • Quick reference for coaches and trainers
  • Pairing with BMI and waist ratios for context

How to use

  • Select sex.
  • Enter your height.
  • Calculate to see an IBW estimate (and a small range from multiple formulas).
  • Use the result as a reference, not a requirement.
  • Compare with BMI or body fat estimates for better context.

Common mistakes to avoid

These are the issues that most often cause confusing results.

  • Treating IBW as the only healthy weight for everyone.
  • Ignoring body composition (muscle vs fat).
  • Using the estimate for children/teens (different standards).
  • Entering height in the wrong unit.
  • Comparing formulas and expecting identical results (each differs).

Tips and notes

  • Use IBW as a reference point, then adjust based on health, strength, and comfort.
  • If you lift weights, your healthy weight can be higher than IBW due to muscle mass.
  • Use BMI calculator to see category ranges, but avoid over-focusing on labels.
  • Track trends and performance, not just a single target weight number.

Glossary

Quick definitions for common terms used in this calculator.

IBW

Ideal Body Weight: a reference weight estimate based on height and sex.

Devine formula

A widely used IBW formula based on a 5-foot baseline and per-inch increments.

Examples

Example

Input: Sex: Men, Height: 180cm

Output: IBW estimate shown in kg

Example

Input: Sex: Women, Height: 165cm

Output: IBW estimate shown in kg

Multiple formulas

Input: Same height, different formulas

Output: Small range across formulas

FAQ

Is IBW the same as a healthy weight range?

No. IBW is a reference estimate. Healthy weight depends on many factors including composition and health markers.

Why do different formulas give different results?

They use slightly different assumptions about baseline weight and weight-per-inch increments.

Can athletes be above IBW and still be healthy?

Yes. Muscle mass can increase weight without indicating poor health.

Should I aim exactly for IBW?

Not necessarily. Use it as a reference and discuss goals with a qualified professional if needed.

Does IBW use age?

Most classic IBW formulas do not use age directly. They are height-based estimates.

Can IBW help with calorie planning?

It can provide a rough reference, but use TDEE and real progress tracking for calorie targets.

Is this calculator free to use?

Yes. This calculator is free to use without signup.

Can I use this calculator on mobile?

Yes. The calculator is mobile-friendly and works on desktop as well.

Last updated and references

Last updated: March 18, 2026

Reviewed by Calculator Suite Pro Editorial Team.

For sensitive health and finance topics, review official sources in addition to calculator outputs.

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