Ideal Weight Calculator – Find Your Healthy Weight Range
Calculate your ideal weight and healthy weight range based on your height and gender using the Robinson formula
The ideal weight calculator uses height and gender to estimate a healthy weight range based on established medical formulas. This tool serves anyone looking to set a realistic weight goal. DigiCalc's ideal body weight calculator applies the Robinson formula alongside a healthy BMI weight range for full context.
Ideal weight is not a single fixed number. It is a range that reflects a healthy weight for a given height and gender, grounded in BMI guidelines from the World Health Organization. Understanding that range, rather than chasing one number on the scale, is what supports realistic and sustainable health goals.
What Is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal body weight (IBW) is an estimated weight range linked to the lowest risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 defines the healthy weight range for most adults. Ideal body weight formulas translate that range into a specific target based on height and gender.
The scale of the problem makes this relevant to most adults. The WHO reports that in 2022, 43% of adults worldwide were overweight (BMI 25+) and 16% were living with obesity (BMI 30+). Understanding where one's weight falls relative to the healthy range is the first step toward addressing that risk.
IBW was originally developed in clinical settings to calculate medication dosages, not aesthetic targets. This distinction matters: ideal weight is a health benchmark, not a beauty standard. Using it as a goal for overall wellbeing is far more productive than treating it as a judgment.
How Much Should I Weigh?
How much a person should weigh depends on height, gender, age, and body composition. There is no universal answer. The healthy BMI range (18.5-24.9) and ideal body weight formulas together provide a reliable starting point. This healthy body weight calculator combines both approaches to give a complete picture.
As a general guide, the height weight chart further down this page answers "how much should I weigh for my height?" for common heights. For a personalised number, enter height and gender into this healthy weight calculator above. The result shows the Robinson formula estimate and the full ideal weight for height range. The perfect weight for height is always a range, not a single fixed number.
For women asking how much should I weigh female, the height-specific sections below cover the most commonly searched heights. The ideal weight for women varies by height and is shown in each section. For men, the dedicated table in the ideal weight for men section applies directly.
Ideal Weight Calculator Formula
Several formulas calculate ideal body weight. Each was developed by researchers using different population datasets. DigiCalc's ideal weight calculator applies the Robinson formula (1983). It is considered the most balanced for general adult use and is widely referenced in clinical nutrition.
Robinson Formula (1983)
- Men: 52 kg + 1.9 kg for every inch over 5 feet
- Women: 49 kg + 1.7 kg for every inch over 5 feet
Formula Comparison at 5'7" (170 cm)
| Formula | Year | Men IBW | Women IBW |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hamwi | 1964 | 71.7 kg (158 lbs) | 63.5 kg (140 lbs) |
| Devine | 1974 | 70.3 kg (155 lbs) | 63.5 kg (140 lbs) |
| Robinson | 1983 | 67.5 kg (149 lbs) | 60.3 kg (133 lbs) |
| Miller | 1983 | 66.7 kg (147 lbs) | 61.7 kg (136 lbs) |
Results vary across formulas, which is why ideal weight is best treated as a range rather than a precise target. The healthy BMI weight range for 5'7" (18.5-24.9) is approximately 53.5-72.1 kg, giving broader context alongside any single formula output.
Worked Example: Male, 5'10" (178 cm)
Using the Robinson formula: 52 + 1.9 x 10 inches above 5'0" = 52 + 19 = 71 kg (156.5 lbs). The healthy BMI range at 5'10" is 58.9-79.4 kg. This means a 5'10" male could weigh between 59 kg and 79 kg and remain in a healthy weight range. Body frame and muscle mass influence where in that range a person naturally falls.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select unit system: Metric (cm, kg) or Imperial (ft, lbs)
- Choose gender
- Enter height
- Click Calculate Ideal Weight
The calculator instantly displays the Robinson formula ideal weight alongside the full healthy weight range based on BMI 18.5-24.9. This dual output is more useful than a single-formula result. It gives both a target estimate and a range to use as a practical body weight planner.
Ideal Weight by Height and Age
Age is an important factor when interpreting weight for height and age alongside the number on the scale. The Robinson formula does not adjust for age directly, but the following context helps interpret results across different life stages:
- 20s and 30s: Muscle mass is typically at its peak. The Robinson IBW estimate aligns closely with what most younger adults can realistically maintain through balanced nutrition and regular activity.
- 40s and 50s: Muscle mass naturally begins declining (sarcopenia). Scale weight may remain the same while body fat percentage increases. Staying in the lower half of the healthy BMI range becomes progressively more important for metabolic health.
- 60s and above: Research from the NIDDK notes that slightly higher BMI (22-27) in older adults is associated with better outcomes. Some additional body fat provides reserve during illness. Older adults should interpret IBW estimates alongside guidance from a healthcare provider.
Healthy Weight for 5'7" Female
A healthy weight for a 5'7" (170 cm) female falls between 53.5 and 72.1 kg (118-159 lbs) based on a healthy BMI of 18.5-24.9. Using the Robinson formula, the ideal weight for a 5'7" female is approximately 60.3 kg (133 lbs).
This is a midpoint estimate, not a rigid target. Body composition, muscle mass, and frame size all influence where an individual falls within this range. A 5'7" female weighing 65 kg has a BMI of approximately 22.5. That falls comfortably within the healthy range defined by the World Health Organization. That weight is healthy even though it exceeds the Robinson formula estimate.
Healthy Weight for 5'5" Female
A healthy weight for a 5'5" (165 cm) female is between 50.4 and 67.9 kg (111-150 lbs) based on BMI 18.5-24.9. The Robinson formula puts the ideal weight for a 5'5" female at approximately 55.9 kg (123 lbs).
These numbers serve as a guide, not a pass-or-fail threshold. Weight is one data point among many. A 5'5" female weighing 60 kg who exercises regularly is often in better health than one at 55 kg who lives a sedentary lifestyle.
Healthy Weight for 5'2" Female
A healthy weight for a 5'2" (157.5 cm) female falls between 46.7 and 62.9 kg (103-139 lbs) based on the healthy BMI range. Using the Robinson formula, the ideal weight for a 5'2" female is 51.7 kg (114 lbs).
The BMI for a 5'2" female who weighs 60 kg is approximately 24.1, sitting near the upper end of the healthy range. Weights above 63 kg at this height push BMI above 25.0 (overweight). Health risks associated with excess body fat begin to increase at that threshold, according to NIDDK weight management guidelines. Use a BMI calculator to check the bmi for 5'2" female alongside this ideal weight estimate for the most complete picture.
Ideal Weight for Men by Height
Men have higher ideal weight benchmarks than women at the same height due to greater average muscle mass and bone density. The following table shows ideal weight for men across common heights, using both the Robinson formula and the healthy BMI range:
| Height | Robinson Formula (IBW) | Healthy BMI Range (18.5-24.9) |
|---|---|---|
| 5'5" (165 cm) | 63.6 kg (140 lbs) | 50.4-67.9 kg (111-150 lbs) |
| 5'7" (170 cm) | 67.5 kg (149 lbs) | 53.5-72.1 kg (118-159 lbs) |
| 5'9" (175 cm) | 71.4 kg (157 lbs) | 56.7-76.4 kg (125-168 lbs) |
| 5'10" (178 cm) | 71.0 kg (156 lbs) | 58.9-79.4 kg (130-175 lbs) |
| 6'0" (183 cm) | 78.9 kg (174 lbs) | 62.2-83.9 kg (137-185 lbs) |
| 6'2" (188 cm) | 82.1 kg (181 lbs) | 65.7-88.5 kg (145-195 lbs) |
For a fuller picture of body composition, pair ideal weight results with a body fat percentage estimate. This provides context beyond scale weight alone, particularly for men who train regularly.
Height and Weight Chart
The following height and weight chart shows healthy weight ranges across common heights based on BMI 18.5-24.9. This applies equally to men and women at the same height since BMI uses only height and weight, not gender. The Robinson formula produces gender-specific results shown in the sections above.
| Height | Minimum Healthy Weight | Maximum Healthy Weight | BMI Midpoint Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5'0" (152 cm) | 43.1 kg (95 lbs) | 58.1 kg (128 lbs) | 50.3 kg (111 lbs) |
| 5'2" (157 cm) | 45.8 kg (101 lbs) | 61.6 kg (136 lbs) | 53.4 kg (118 lbs) |
| 5'4" (163 cm) | 49.2 kg (108 lbs) | 66.2 kg (146 lbs) | 57.4 kg (127 lbs) |
| 5'5" (165 cm) | 50.4 kg (111 lbs) | 67.9 kg (150 lbs) | 58.8 kg (130 lbs) |
| 5'7" (170 cm) | 53.5 kg (118 lbs) | 72.1 kg (159 lbs) | 62.4 kg (138 lbs) |
| 5'9" (175 cm) | 56.7 kg (125 lbs) | 76.4 kg (168 lbs) | 66.1 kg (146 lbs) |
| 5'10" (178 cm) | 58.9 kg (130 lbs) | 79.4 kg (175 lbs) | 68.6 kg (151 lbs) |
| 6'0" (183 cm) | 62.2 kg (137 lbs) | 83.9 kg (185 lbs) | 72.5 kg (160 lbs) |
| 6'2" (188 cm) | 65.7 kg (145 lbs) | 88.5 kg (195 lbs) | 76.5 kg (169 lbs) |
This women weight chart and men's reference doubles as a goal weight calculator. Pick the BMI midpoint weight for a given height as a practical, evidence-based target. A normal BMI falls between 18.5 and 24.9 for adults of all heights. The midpoint column above reflects the centre of that range.
Limitations of the Ideal Weight Calculator
No formula captures the full complexity of human body composition. Understanding the limitations of the ideal weight calculator helps set realistic expectations for how results should be interpreted:
- Muscle mass is not measured: Athletes and people with high muscle mass will often exceed the IBW estimate despite being in excellent health. A 5'10" rugby player weighing 90 kg may be classified as overweight by BMI standards while carrying very little body fat.
- Age is not factored in: The Robinson formula does not adjust for age. Muscle mass tends to decrease and fat distribution shifts over time. The same scale weight can represent very different body compositions at age 25 versus age 55.
- Body frame size is ignored: People with larger bone structures naturally weigh more at the same height. A large-framed individual may be healthy at a weight that exceeds the IBW estimate for their height.
- Not validated for children or pregnant individuals: This calculator applies to adults only. For children, the CDC provides age-specific growth charts. Pregnant individuals should consult healthcare providers directly for weight guidance appropriate to their stage of pregnancy.
- Ethnic variation in health risk: Research from the NIDDK notes that BMI cutoffs may not equally reflect metabolic health risk across all ethnic populations. Some groups carry higher health risk at BMI values that fall within the standard healthy range.
Tips to Reach and Maintain Your Ideal Weight
Once a healthy weight range is established using this calculator, reaching and maintaining it requires consistent, evidence-based habits rather than short-term diets:
- Target the middle of the healthy BMI range: Aiming for BMI 21-22 rather than just below 25 creates more flexibility. It is easier to maintain long-term without constant calorie monitoring.
- Calculate calorie needs using a BMR baseline: Knowing the Basal Metabolic Rate helps calibrate how much food the body needs at rest. Use DigiCalc's BMR calculator to establish a baseline before adjusting daily calorie intake.
- Include resistance training alongside cardio: Building muscle increases resting metabolic rate, making it easier to maintain ideal weight long-term. Two to three resistance sessions per week is the evidence-based minimum for meaningful body composition improvement.
- Keep weight loss to 0.5 kg per week maximum. The CDC recommends 0.5-1 kg (1-2 lbs) per week. Faster rates lead to muscle breakdown and rebound weight gain.
- Reassess every 4-6 weeks: Body weight fluctuates daily due to water retention, digestion, and hormonal cycles. Tracking trends over 4-6 week intervals gives a more accurate picture of progress than daily weigh-ins.
For a complete health profile, combine ideal weight data with a BMI check and a body fat percentage estimate. Together, these three metrics give a far clearer view of body composition than any single number alone.
For a complete collection of health conversions, use DigiCalc's health calculators.