Ideal Weight Calculator (Devine Formula)

Ideal Weight Calculator

This Ideal Weight Calculator estimates a healthy body weight based on your height and gender.
The calculation uses the widely known Devine formula, often applied in clinical and fitness settings as a general reference for healthy body weight.

Use this tool to quickly estimate your ideal weight in kilograms and pounds.


How Is Ideal Weight Calculated?

This Ideal Weight calculator uses the Devine formula, developed in 1974 and still commonly used in healthcare.

The formula estimates ideal body weight based on height and gender:

For men:

  • 50 kg + 2.3 kg for every inch over 5 feet

For women:

  • 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for every inch over 5 feet

In pounds, this equals:

  • Men: 110 lbs + 5.1 lbs per inch over 5 feet
  • Women: 100 lbs + 5.1 lbs per inch over 5 feet

Example:

  • A 175 cm (5’9”) male → about 70–72 kg (154–159 lbs)
  • A 165 cm (5’5”) female → about 57–59 kg (125–130 lbs)

The Ideal Weight Calculator automatically performs these conversions whether you enter your height in centimeters, meters, or feet and inches.

What Does “Ideal Weight” Mean?

“Ideal weight” does not mean perfect weight.

It is a statistical estimate of what body weight may be associated with lower health risk for the average person of a certain height and gender.

It does not account for:

  • Muscle mass
  • Body fat percentage
  • Bone density
  • Athletic build
  • Individual genetics

For example:

  • A muscular athlete may weigh above their calculated ideal weight
  • A sedentary person may fall below it but still have high body fat

This is why ideal weight should be viewed as a reference point, not a strict target.

Is Ideal Weight Accurate?

Ideal weight formulas provide an estimate and should be used as a general guideline only.

They are most useful for:

  • Setting an initial weight goal
  • Medical dosing reference
  • Comparing height-weight proportions
  • Evaluating broad health trends

They are less accurate for:

  • Bodybuilders
  • Very lean athletes
  • Individuals with high muscle mass
  • Elderly individuals with reduced muscle mass

A healthy weight depends on more than a number on a scale.

Ideal Weight vs BMI

Many people confuse ideal weight with BMI (Body Mass Index), but they are different tools.

BMI:

  • Compares weight to height
  • Categorizes underweight, normal, overweight, obese
  • Uses a formula: weight ÷ height²

Ideal Weight Calculator:

  • Estimates what a person might weigh at a healthy reference level
  • Based on height and gender
  • Does not classify weight categories

For example:

Two people may have the same BMI, but their ideal weights may differ based on height.

Both tools are general indicators — not medical diagnoses.

For a more complete picture, consider using:

Should You Aim for Your Ideal Weight?

That depends on your current situation.

You may consider working toward your ideal weight if:

  • You are significantly above it
  • Your BMI falls in the overweight or obese category
  • You experience weight-related health issues

However, your goal does not have to match the formula exactly.

Many people feel and perform best:

  • Slightly above calculated ideal weight (more muscle)
  • Within a reasonable range around it

Instead of aiming for a single number, think in terms of:

  • A healthy weight range
  • Sustainable habits
  • Long-term consistency

Although your calculated result from this ideal weight calculator will only change if your height input changes, your relationship to that number can change over time. As your body composition improves — for example by gaining muscle or reducing body fat — you may feel healthy and strong even if you are slightly above or below the calculated ideal weight. The ideal weight calculator provides a structured reference point, but your overall health, strength, and lifestyle habits remain more important than hitting an exact number.

How to Reach Your Ideal Weight Safely

If you decide to move toward your calculated ideal weight:

  1. Determine your maintenance calories (TDEE)
  2. Create a moderate calorie deficit (300–500 kcal)
  3. Prioritize protein intake
  4. Strength train to preserve muscle
  5. Monitor hydration

A sustainable rate of fat loss is typically:

  • 0.25–0.75 kg per week
  • 0.5–1.5 lbs per week

Rapid weight loss increases the risk of muscle loss and metabolic slowdown.

For guidance, use:

  • ➜ Calorie Deficit Calculator
  • ➜ Water Intake Calculator

When Should You Recalculate?

You may want to use the Ideal Weight Calculator again if:

  • Your height input changes (unit switch)
  • You are planning a long-term weight goal
  • You are reassessing health targets
  • You are transitioning from fat loss to maintenance

Your calculated ideal weight does not change frequently — but your lifestyle and goals might.

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Disclaimer:
Estimates based on established scientific formulas. Results may vary depending on individual metabolism, health status, and lifestyle. This calculator does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise, or weight loss plan.

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