Home Back

Ideal Weight Calculator By Frame

Ideal Weight Formula:

\[ IBW = 50 + 2.3 \times (height_{in} - 60) \text{ (for men, medium frame)} \] \[ \text{Adjust } \pm10\% \text{ for small/large frame} \]

inches

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Ideal Body Weight?

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.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Devine formula:

\[ \text{Male: } IBW = 50 + 2.3 \times (height_{in} - 60) \] \[ \text{Female: } IBW = 45.5 + 2.3 \times (height_{in} - 60) \] \[ \text{Adjust } \pm10\% \text{ for small/large frame} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula estimates ideal weight based on height and gender, with adjustments for body frame size.

3. Importance of Ideal Weight Calculation

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.

4. Using the Calculator

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).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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.

Ideal Weight Calculator By Frame© - All Rights Reserved 2025