Ideal Weight Calculator

See different estimates for your ideal weight.

Used for the Creff formula, which considers bone structure.

Ideal Weight: Uncovering Myths and Focusing on Health

The quest for an "ideal weight" is common, but the concept of a single magic number on the scale is outdated. Modern health science, endorsed by bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO), focuses on a healthy weight range, an interval where your body functions best and the risks of disease are lowest. This approach is far more practical and beneficial for long-term well-being.

Ideal Weight vs. Healthy Weight Range: What's the Difference?

It's crucial to understand this distinction to use our tools effectively.

  • "Ideal Weight" (Classic Formulas): This is a single number derived from mathematical formulas created decades ago (like Devine, Robinson, Miller). They offer an estimate but are limited because they don't consider your body composition, age, or ethnicity.
  • "Healthy Weight Range" (Based on BMI): This is the recommended approach today. It is calculated based on your Body Mass Index (BMI), defining the weight interval that corresponds to a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 (the "Normal" range). Being within this range is a more reliable and realistic indicator of health.

The Classic Formulas: A Historical Reference

The formulas we present as "classic" were developed in specific contexts, often for drug dosage calculations, not as a universal health goal. Their main limitations are:

  • They don't distinguish fat from muscle: An athlete might be classified as overweight because of high muscle mass.
  • They don't consider age or ethnicity: Body composition changes with age and can vary among different populations.
  • They ignore bone structure: People with larger or smaller bone frames can have different healthy weights (the Creff formula attempts a simple adjustment for this).

Therefore, use these numbers as a point of interest, but prioritize the healthy weight range indicated by your BMI.

Health Goes Beyond the Scale

The number on the scale is just one piece of the puzzle. A person can be in the "healthy weight range" and still have a high percentage of body fat, a condition known as "skinny fat," which carries health risks. For a truly complete assessment, it is essential to consider other factors.

Use our other tools to deepen your analysis and create a complete action plan:

  • Body Fat Calculator: The most important metric for understanding your actual body composition and fitness level.
  • Calorie Calculator (BMR): Discover your daily energy needs to create an effective eating plan and reach your healthy weight range.
  • Macronutrient Calculator: Learn to divide your calories intelligently to optimize your results, whatever your goal may be.
Always Remember: Our calculators are informational and educational tools. They do not replace the diagnosis and guidance of a doctor or registered dietitian.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ideal Weight

'Ideal weight' is an estimate of a weight considered healthy for a given height, based on mathematical formulas. However, it's a somewhat outdated concept. Today, experts prefer to talk about a 'healthy weight range,' which is an interval of weight (calculated from a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9) where health risks are lower.

There is no single 'best' formula. Formulas like Devine, Robinson, and Miller are estimates based on old population data and do not account for body composition. The approach most recommended by health organizations today is to use the healthy weight range derived from a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9, which our calculator also displays as the main result.

Instead of a single number, it's best to think in terms of a range. For example, for a person who is 5'9\" (175cm), the healthy weight range (BMI 18.5-24.9) would be approximately between 125 lbs (57 kg) and 168 lbs (76 kg). Our calculator shows this personalized range for your height.