Ideal body weight estimates the weight range associated with good health for a given height, often derived from a target BMI of 18.5–24.9. Several formulas exist (Devine, Robinson, Miller) and none is perfect — they do not account for muscle mass, frame size or ethnicity. Athletes, particularly those with high muscle mass, may register as ‘overweight’ by BMI while having excellent body composition. Ideal weight is a rough guide, not a diagnostic target.
Key points
- Derived from target BMI 18.5–24.9
- Does not account for muscle mass
- Multiple formulas (Devine, Robinson, Miller)
- A guide, not a diagnostic target