Ideal Weight Calculator

How the ideal weight is calculated

There is no single "ideal" weight, but a target can be derived from the body mass index. The calculator uses a BMI of 22, close to the middle of the healthy range (18.5–24.9):

Ideal weight = 22 × height (m)²

For someone 1.75 m tall: 22 × 3.0625 = 67.4 kg. For 1.62 m: 22 × 2.6244 = 57.7 kg.

The healthy range is wider than one number

Any weight that gives a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 falls in the WHO's healthy range:

That is a span of almost 20 kg for the same height. Where you sit comfortably within it depends on your build, muscle mass and age.

Other formulas you may come across

• Devine (1974): 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch above 5 ft for men, 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch for women. At 1.75 m it gives about 70.5 kg for a man and 66 kg for a woman. It was designed to dose medication, not to set personal goals.
• Lorentz: height (cm) − 100 − (height − 150) ÷ 4 for men, ÷ 2.5 for women. At 175 cm: 68.8 kg for a man, 65 kg for a woman. It is still widely quoted in France.

The formulas give results within a few kilos of each other — a reminder that "ideal" is a zone, not a precise value.

How to use the result

If you are outside the healthy range, even a modest change of 5–10% of your body weight can bring real health benefits; you don't need to reach the exact target. Muscular people and older adults may be healthiest slightly above BMI 22. For a fuller picture, combine this result with your body fat percentage and waist measurement, and discuss weight goals with a health professional.

Formulas and content last reviewed: October 2026 · About