Explain it like I'm 12
The healthy weight calculator reverses the adult BMI formula for BMI 18.5 to 24.9, then shows a Devine ideal-weight estimate beside that range for context.
Healthy Weight Calculator
Estimate the common adult healthy-weight range for a height, with the Devine ideal-weight formula shown as context rather than a single target.
Source references
- CDC Adult BMI — BMI range reference
Formula
Healthy range low = 18.5 × height(m)^2. Healthy range high = 24.9 × height(m)^2. Devine IBW kg = 50 + 2.3 × inches over 5 ft for male formula, or 45.5 + 2.3 × inches over 5 ft for female formula.
Worked example
At 178 cm, height is 1.78 m. The common adult BMI 18.5-24.9 range is about 58.6-78.9 kg. The male Devine comparison is about 73.2 kg.
Professional note
Master’s Tip: treat the range as a screening context, not a prescription. Body composition, age, pregnancy, ethnicity, athlete status and clinical needs can all change the right interpretation.
Regional and unit assumptions
Adult health education estimate using metric height.
Assumptions and limitations
- Adult screening formulas only.
- Body composition, ethnicity, age, pregnancy, athlete status and clinical needs are not captured.
- This is not a diagnosis or prescription.
Methodology & Accuracy
How this calculator is checked
CalculationTime pages are built around visible arithmetic: the formula, assumptions, worked example and practical limitations are shown so the result can be checked rather than simply trusted.
Formula used
Healthy range low = 18.5 × height(m)^2. Healthy range high = 24.9 × height(m)^2. Devine IBW kg = 50 + 2.3 × inches over 5 ft for male formula, or 45.5 + 2.3 × inches over 5 ft for female formula.
Standard or basis
Adult health education estimate using metric height.
Where a calculator follows a named legal, trade or industry standard, that standard is cited visibly. Otherwise the page uses transparent general arithmetic and states its limits.Master's Tip
Master’s Tip: treat the range as a screening context, not a prescription. Body composition, age, pregnancy, ethnicity, athlete status and clinical needs can all change the right interpretation.
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Questions
Is ideal body weight medically exact?
No. It is a formula estimate and should not replace clinical assessment.
Why show a BMI range too?
A range is usually more honest than a single target because healthy body size varies.