Reference Weight Calculator
Estimate a reference weight based on your height, using the Devine formula.
Reference weight
This calculator provides a general estimate for informational purposes only. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual health circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Devine formula?
It's a formula from 1974, originally developed to help calculate medication dosages, that estimates a reference body weight based on height and sex. It's since become a common general reference point, though it wasn't designed as a definitive health target.
Is this the weight I should aim for?
Not necessarily. Several similar formulas exist (Hamwi, Robinson, Miller), and they can disagree by 5-10kg at the same height and sex — none is more "correct" than the others. Devine also doesn't account for muscle mass, frame size, or individual health circumstances. Treat this as one reference point among several, not a precise target.
Why does the formula differ by sex?
The original formula used different baseline constants for men and women, based on average body composition differences observed in the reference population it was developed from.
Want lab-grade insight to go with this estimate?
IDEAL Fitness & Nutrition DNA Test