Ideal Weight by Height and Age: What Science Actually Says
Published Apr 14, 2026 Β· 5 min read
There's no single "ideal weight." Different formulas give different answers, and none account for muscle mass, bone density, or body composition. Here's how the major formulas work β and why you shouldn't obsess over any single number.
Major Ideal Weight Formulas
For a 5'10" (178 cm) male:
| Formula | Result | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Devine (1974) | 166 lbs | 50 + 2.3 Γ (inches over 5') |
| Robinson (1983) | 165 lbs | 52 + 1.9 Γ (inches over 5') |
| Miller (1983) | 163 lbs | 56.2 + 1.41 Γ (inches over 5') |
| Hamwi (1964) | 172 lbs | 48 + 2.7 Γ (inches over 5') |
| BMI range | 132-174 lbs | BMI 18.5-24.9 |
Why These Formulas Fall Short
- Developed using data from specific populations (often Caucasian adults)
- Don't account for muscle mass β a fit 190-lb person may be healthier than a sedentary 160-lb person
- Ignore age: older adults may benefit from slightly higher weight for bone density
- Frame size matters: a large-framed person naturally weighs more
Better Metrics to Track
- Waist circumference: Men under 40", women under 35" β better predictor of health risk than weight
- Waist-to-hip ratio: Under 0.90 (men) or 0.85 (women)
- Body fat percentage: The most direct measure of composition
- How you feel: Energy, sleep quality, ability to exercise comfortably
A Practical Approach
Use formulas as a rough starting range, not a gospel number. If you're within the BMI healthy range, have a reasonable waist circumference, can exercise without joint pain, and your blood work looks good β you're probably at a healthy weight regardless of what any formula says.
Try it: Use our Ideal Weight Calculator to compare all major formulas for your height and frame size.