Ideal Weight: 4 Formulas Compared
Compare Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi ideal weight formulas. Understand which is most accurate for your body type.
When you search for your "ideal weight," you will find different answers depending on which formula is used. That is because no single formula accounts for body frame, muscle mass, or individual health conditions. The best approach is to compare multiple formulas and use the range as a guideline.
Our Ideal Weight Calculator runs all four major clinical formulas simultaneously so you can see the full range.
The Four Formulas
Devine (1974) was originally created for medication dosing, not weight management. Despite this, it became the most widely used formula in clinical settings. Robinson (1983) refined Devine's approach. Miller (1983) tends to give slightly higher targets. Hamwi (1964) is the oldest and is still used in dietary planning.
Beyond the Number
Your ideal weight is just a starting point. Combine it with your BMI and body fat percentage for a complete picture. If you are working toward a weight goal, calculate your daily calorie needs and set up proper macronutrient ratios. Monitor your lean body mass to make sure weight loss comes from fat rather than muscle.
Try the Calculator
Put these concepts into practice with our free Ideal Weight Calculator. No signup required.