How to Calculate Ideal Body Weight by Height
Short answer
Devine IBW (kg): men 50 + 2.3×(inches over 5 ft); women 45.5 + 2.3×(inches over 5 ft). Example: male 175 cm ≈ 69 in → about 66 kg. Treat as educational, not a personal mandate.
Ideal-weight formulas are historical rules of thumb. Compare them with BMI ranges in the ideal weight calculator.
Devine, Robinson, Miller
Each uses height above 5 feet with slightly different coefficients. Results differ by a few kilograms.
BMI band
WHO adult “healthy” BMI 18.5–24.9 converts to a weight range for your height — see how to calculate BMI.
Calories
Weight targets need intake plans — TDEE and the calorie calculator.
Open the free bmi calculator.
Related: how to measure body fat at home.
Related: how many calories to lose weight.
More practice
Change the inputs, rewrite the formula from memory, then confirm with the tool. Keep units consistent and read the disclaimer on tax or health pages before acting on a number.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Devine formula?
Men: 50 + 2.3×inches over 60. Women: 45.5 + 2.3×inches over 60 (kg).
Should I diet to the IBW number?
Not automatically — ask a clinician, especially if you have a medical condition.
Why do formulas disagree?
They use different coefficients from different studies.
Does muscle change ideal weight?
Yes; formulas ignore body composition.