Ideal Weight: Your Questions Answered
These are the questions people ask most often about ideal weight. Each answer is short; follow the links for the full detail.
What does a ideal weight calculation tell me?
Gives an ideal-weight estimate and the healthy weight range for your height.
What is the formula?
Devine: 50 kg (men) or 45.5 kg (women) + 2.3 kg per inch above 5 feet.
What do I need to enter?
Sex, Height (cm).
Is this a medical assessment?
No. These are general estimates. Speak to a doctor or polyclinic for advice about your health.
Can you show an example?
For example, with these inputs:
- Sex: Male
- Height (cm): 170
the calculator returns:
- Ideal weight (Devine): 65.94 kg
- Healthy range for Asians (BMI 18.5–22.9): 53.46 kg (lower)
- Upper healthy weight: 66.18 kg
Any tips?
- Small, steady changes are easier to sustain than dramatic targets.
- Asian BMI cut-offs are lower than WHO's, so a 'normal' international BMI can still mean moderate risk.
- See a healthcare professional before big changes to diet or exercise, especially if you have a medical condition.
Background
Singapore's tropical climate means you lose more fluid through sweat, even when you are not exercising. Thirst, urine colour and how you feel are good guides, and needs rise during outdoor activity or heat waves.
Research has shown that Asians tend to develop conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease at lower body weights than Europeans. That is why the Health Promotion Board recommends lower BMI cut-offs for Singaporeans, with 23 marking the start of moderate risk.
Any health calculator gives a general estimate. If a result worries you, or you are pregnant, managing a chronic condition or planning a big change in diet or exercise, speak to a doctor, polyclinic or dietitian.
Related calculations
- Daily Water Intake Calculator: A rough guide to daily fluid needs in Singapore's hot, humid climate.
- Calorie Deficit Calculator: Sets a daily calorie target for steady weight loss.
- Pregnancy Due Date Calculator: Estimates your due date using Naegele's rule.
- Ovulation Calculator: Estimates ovulation and the fertile window.
Try it yourself with the Ideal Weight Calculator.
Run your own numbers: Ideal Weight Calculator