How is ideal weight calculated?
The most widely used approach is the healthy BMI range (18.5 to 24.9): healthy weight = BMI × (height in metres)². For a height of 175 cm, that’s 56.7 to 76.3 kg, the range the World Health Organization considers healthy for adults.
There are also older medical formulas that give a single number, originally designed for drug dosing. The best known:
| Formula | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Devine (1974) | 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 ft | 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch |
| Robinson (1983) | 52 + 1.9 per inch | 49 + 1.7 per inch |
| Miller (1983) | 56.2 + 1.41 per inch | 53.1 + 1.36 per inch |
| Hamwi (1964) | 48 + 2.7 per inch | 45.5 + 2.2 per inch |
The formulas differ by a few kilograms and mostly fall inside the healthy range, so being within the range matters more than hitting one exact number.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m within the range but far from the formula numbers. Is that a problem?
No. Any weight inside the healthy range is generally fine. The formulas give an average, and bodies differ in muscle and bone size.
Why are the formulas less accurate below 152 cm?
They were designed for heights of 5 feet (152 cm) and above. For shorter heights, rely on the BMI range.
How many calories should I eat to reach it?
Use our calorie calculator to find your daily needs for your goal, and our BMI calculator to see your current category.