Ideal Weight Formula:
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Ideal body weight (IBW) is the optimal weight associated with maximum life expectancy for a given height, gender, and body frame size. It's used in clinical settings for medication dosing, nutritional assessment, and health evaluations.
The calculator uses the Devine formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula estimates ideal weight based on height and gender, with adjustments for body frame size.
Details: Ideal weight is used clinically for drug dosing, nutritional assessment, and as a reference point for evaluating actual body weight. It helps identify underweight and overweight conditions.
Tips: Enter height in inches (1 foot = 12 inches), select gender and frame size. For frame size estimation: small frame = wrist circumference less than 6.25" (male) or 5.5" (female); large frame = wrist circumference more than 7.5" (male) or 6.5" (female).
Q1: How accurate is this formula?
A: It provides a general estimate but may not account for individual variations in muscle mass, bone density, and body composition.
Q2: What's the difference between IBW and BMI?
A: IBW is a fixed weight for height, while BMI is a ratio of weight to height squared. BMI is more commonly used for population studies.
Q3: Should athletes use this calculation?
A: Athletes with high muscle mass may exceed IBW without being overweight. Additional assessments like body fat percentage may be needed.
Q4: How do I determine my frame size?
A: Measure wrist circumference or use elbow breadth. Small frame = wrist ≤6.25" (M) or ≤5.5" (F); Large frame = wrist ≥7.5" (M) or ≥6.5" (F).
Q5: Are there other IBW formulas?
A: Yes, including Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi formulas, which give slightly different results. The Devine formula is most commonly used for medication dosing.