Healthy Weight Calculator
This calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for personal health decisions.
Healthy range: BMI 18.5–24.9 × height(m)²
How Healthy Weight Is Determined
A healthy weight range for most adults corresponds to a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9. BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)². Minimum healthy weight = 18.5 × height(m)². Maximum healthy weight = 24.9 × height(m)². For someone 175 cm tall (1.75 m), the range is approximately 56.7–76.3 kg. This range reflects epidemiological associations with lowest mortality risk for general populations, though individual optimal weight varies.
Beyond BMI ranges, clinicians historically used height-based ideal weight formulas. The Devine formula (1974): male = 50 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60); female = 45.5 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60). Robinson (1983): male = 52 + 1.9 × (inches − 60); female = 49 + 1.7 × (inches − 60). Miller (1983): male = 56.2 + 1.41 × (inches − 60); female = 53.1 + 1.36 × (inches − 60). Hamwi (1964): male = 48 + 2.7 × (inches − 60); female = 45.5 + 2.2 × (inches − 60). All formulas assume height ≥ 5 feet (152 cm).
Frame size adjusts results ±10%: small frame reduces estimates, large frame increases them. These formulas were developed for clinical drug dosing and population studies — they estimate a single "ideal" point, while BMI provides a range. Comparing all four formulas side by side shows typical spread of 5–10 kg for the same height.
Entering current weight enables BMI calculation and comparison against the healthy range — below, within, or above. The visual BMI scale highlights the 18.5–24.9 healthy band and marks your position. BMI does not distinguish muscle from fat; athletes may fall outside the range with low body fat. Older adults may have healthy body composition at BMI slightly above 25.
Use healthy weight ranges as screening tools, not rigid targets. Body composition, waist circumference, fitness, and metabolic health provide additional context. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized weight goals, especially with chronic conditions or during pregnancy.
Examples
| Example | Result |
|---|---|
| 175 cm height | Healthy range ~56.7–76.3 kg |
| 165 cm, female, medium frame | Devine ~59 kg, Robinson ~57 kg |
| 180 cm, male, 75 kg | BMI 23.1 — within healthy range |
| 160 cm, 70 kg | BMI 27.3 — above healthy range |
Frequently asked questions
For most adults, BMI 18.5–24.9 is classified as normal weight. Below 18.5 is underweight; 25–29.9 is overweight; 30+ is obese.
No single formula is universally best. Devine is widely used clinically. Comparing all four gives a reasonable estimate range for your height and frame.
Yes. Muscular individuals may have higher BMI with low body fat. Waist circumference and body composition tests provide additional insight beyond BMI alone.