Devine formula healthy target weight — height in any unit.
**Male:** IBW (kg) = 50 + 2.3 × (H_in − 60) **Female:** IBW (kg) = 45.5 + 2.3 × (H_in − 60) Where H_in is height in **inches**.
The Devine formula, published by Dr. B.J. Devine in 1974, calculates Ideal Body Weight (IBW) in kilograms from height in centimetres. It was originally created to standardise drug dosing in clinical settings and remains the most commonly cited IBW equation today.
There are separate equations for males and females because body composition differs by biological sex. The baseline weight (50 kg for males, 45.5 kg for females) represents the estimated ideal weight at exactly 5 feet (152.4 cm), and an additional 2.3 kg is added per inch above that baseline height.
IBW = 45.5 + 2.3 × (69 − 60) IBW = 45.5 + 2.3 × 9 IBW = 45.5 + 20.7 IBW = 66.2 kg
Result: Ideal Body Weight ≈ **66.2 kg (approximately 146 lb)**
For a female standing 5 feet 9 inches tall, the Devine formula gives an Ideal Body Weight of 66.2 kg (≈ 146 lb). This means that, according to the Devine model, a body weight in the vicinity of 66 kg is the clinical reference point used for that combination of height and sex. Your actual healthy weight range may span several kilograms above and below this figure depending on your muscle mass, bone density, age, and individual physiology. Always discuss weight goals with a qualified healthcare professional.
Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is a statistical estimate of the weight at which a person of a given height and sex is considered to be at a healthy baseline. It is widely used in clinical medicine — particularly for calculating medication doses, ventilator settings, and nutritional needs — rather than as a strict aesthetic or personal fitness target.
The Devine formula was introduced by B.J. Devine in a 1974 paper on drug dosing. Interestingly, Devine never intended it as a definitive health standard; it was a convenient approximation. Despite this, it became the default IBW reference in clinical practice and pharmacology for decades.
| Formula | Male Baseline | Female Baseline | Increment per inch | |---|---|---|---| | Devine (1974) | 50 kg | 45.5 kg | 2.3 kg | | Robinson (1983) | 52 kg | 49 kg | 1.9 kg (M) / 1.7 kg (F) | | Miller (1983) | 56.2 kg | 53.1 kg | 1.41 kg (M) / 1.36 kg (F) | | Hamwi (1964) | 48 kg | 45.4 kg | 2.7 kg (M) / 2.3 kg (F) |
The Devine formula is used in this calculator because it is the most clinically referenced standard.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. IBW is a clinical reference tool, not a personal health prescription. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or health plan.
Using the Devine formula: IBW = 50 + 2.3 × (70 − 60) = 50 + 23 = **73 kg (approximately 161 lb)**. This is the clinical reference point; individual healthy ranges may vary by ±5–10%.
All IBW formulas, including Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi, are population-level statistical estimates with inherent error margins. Studies show differences of up to 10–15% between methods for the same individual. No single formula perfectly predicts every person's optimal weight. Devine is most cited in clinical pharmacology contexts.
The original Devine formula does not adjust for age. However, research suggests that slightly higher body weights may be associated with better health outcomes in older adults (a phenomenon sometimes called the 'obesity paradox'). For age-adjusted weight guidance, consult a healthcare provider.
Adjusted Body Weight (AdjBW) is used in clinical settings when a patient's actual weight is significantly above their IBW (typically more than 30% over). The formula is: AdjBW = IBW + 0.4 × (Actual Weight − IBW). This is commonly used for drug dosing in obese patients.
Multiply kilograms by 2.2046. For example, 66.2 kg × 2.2046 ≈ **146 lb**. Our calculator displays both units automatically.
It uses the **Devine formula (1974)**: IBW = 50 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60) for males, and IBW = 45.5 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60) for females. This is the most widely used clinical IBW reference equation.
Not exactly. Ideal Body Weight from the Devine formula is a clinical reference point — it tells you one estimate of a target weight. A healthy weight range is broader and considers factors like body composition, age, fitness level, and health markers. The IBW is best used as a rough guideline, not an absolute goal.
The Devine formula is technically only validated for heights at or above 5 feet (152.4 cm / 60 inches). For shorter individuals, the formula can produce values that are too low to be physiologically meaningful. Speak with a healthcare provider for a more appropriate assessment.
No — always use your barefoot height for accurate results. Even thin shoes add 1–2 cm, which translates into a 0.9–1.8 kg difference in your calculated IBW.
Males use a baseline of 50 kg at 5 feet, while females use 45.5 kg. Both add 2.3 kg per inch above 5 feet. The 4.5 kg difference reflects average differences in bone density and lean mass between sexes at the same height.
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