Ideal Weight
Hamwi & Devine formulas
About This Calculator
Ideal weight formulas provide a target body weight range based on height and sex. The Hamwi and Devine formulas were developed for clinical use in estimating drug dosages, not as fitness goals. They represent a mid-range estimate and don't account for frame size, muscle mass, or individual variation.
Formula
Hamwi (Men): 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch above 5 ft
Hamwi (Women): 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch above 5 ft
Devine (Men): 50 + 2.3 kg per inch above 5 ft
Devine (Women): 45.5 + 2.3 kg per inch above 5 ft
Example Calculation
Male, 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Inches above 5 ft = 10
- Hamwi: 48 + 2.7×10 = 48 + 27 = 75 kg
- Devine: 50 + 2.3×10 = 50 + 23 = 73 kg
Ideal weight range: 73-75 kg (161-165 lbs)
Ideal Weight by Height (Hamwi Formula)
| Height | Male (kg) | Male (lbs) | Female (kg) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5'4" (163 cm) | 58.8 | 130 | 54.3 | 120 |
| 5'6" (168 cm) | 64.2 | 142 | 58.7 | 129 |
| 5'8" (173 cm) | 69.6 | 154 | 63.1 | 139 |
| 5'10" (178 cm) | 75.0 | 165 | 67.5 | 149 |
| 6'0" (183 cm) | 80.4 | 177 | 71.9 | 159 |
| 6'2" (188 cm) | 85.8 | 189 | 76.3 | 168 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ideal weight formulas accurate?
These formulas provide a ballpark estimate developed for pharmacological dosing, not fitness goals. A 5'10" muscular athlete may weigh 90 kg with low body fat, well above 'ideal weight.' Use them as a reference point, not a strict target.
What is a healthy weight range?
Rather than a single number, a weight range based on BMI 18.5-24.9 is more practical. At 5'10" (178 cm), that's 58-79 kg. Combine with body fat percentage and waist circumference for a fuller picture of health.
What is frame size and how does it affect ideal weight?
Frame size (small, medium, large) refers to bone density and structure. A large-framed person naturally weighs more at the same height. Wrist circumference is a common proxy: for women, wrist < 15 cm = small frame; 15-16 cm = medium; > 16 cm = large.
Should I aim for my ideal weight?
Ideal weight formulas are guidelines, not prescriptions. A better goal is the lightest weight you can comfortably maintain while being strong, energetic, and healthy. Track body fat and fitness metrics alongside scale weight.