Ideal Weight Formula Explained, With Examples
Every ideal weight result comes from one formula. Once you understand what goes into it, you can sanity-check any figure you are given, whether by an employer, a bank, a teacher or another website.
The formula
Devine: 50 kg (men) or 45.5 kg (women) + 2.3 kg per inch above 5 feet.
What each input means
- Sex: choose from Male, Female.
- Height (cm): the value you enter in the calculator.
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
How the result changes
The table keeps the other inputs at their example values and changes height (cm).
| Height (cm) | Ideal weight (Devine) | Healthy range for Asians (BMI 18.5–22.9) | Upper healthy weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male | 65.94 kg | 53.46 kg (lower) | 66.18 kg |
| 85 | -11.03 kg | 13.37 kg (lower) | 16.55 kg |
| 128 | 27.91 kg | 30.31 kg (lower) | 37.52 kg |
| 212 | 103.97 kg | 83.15 kg (lower) | 102.92 kg |
| 255 | 142.91 kg | 120.30 kg (lower) | 148.91 kg |
Why it matters
Health numbers are most useful when you track them consistently. A quick calculation turns everyday measurements into something you can act on, whether that is planning meals, training for a run or preparing for a clinic visit.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Use the Ideal Weight Calculator to plug in your own numbers.
Run your own numbers: Ideal Weight Calculator