Ideal Weight Guide: Formulas, Healthy Ranges & Reality

What Is Ideal Weight?

Ideal weight calculators estimate a healthy weight range based on your height, frame size, and sometimes age and gender. However, there is no single perfect weight — it is a range, and body composition matters more than the number.

Common Formulas

Devine formula (most widely used): Men = 50kg + 2.3kg per inch over 5 feet. Women = 45.5kg + 2.3kg per inch over 5 feet. For a 5'10" man: 50 + (10 x 2.3) = 73kg (11.5 stone).

Robinson formula: Slightly different coefficients. Men = 52kg + 1.9kg per inch over 5 feet.

BMI-based range: A healthy BMI (18.5-24.9) for a 5'10" person gives a range of 58-82kg. That's a 24kg range, showing how broad healthy can be.

Why Ideal Weight Formulas Are Limited

They don't account for muscle mass, body frame, age, or ethnicity. A muscular 80kg person at 5'10" may be healthier than a sedentary 73kg person. Body fat percentage, waist circumference, and overall fitness are better health indicators.

Healthy Weight Indicators

Instead of fixating on a target weight, consider:

• BMI: 18.5-24.9 (general guide)
• Waist circumference: Under 94cm (men) / 80cm (women)
• Body fat: 14-24% (men) / 21-31% (women)
• How you feel: Energy levels, sleep quality, physical capability

Setting Realistic Goals

Aim for a weight where you feel energetic, sleep well, and can be active. Losing 5-10% of body weight delivers significant health benefits even if you're still above ideal weight calculator targets. Focus on sustainable habits rather than a specific number.