Ideal Weight Calculator
Get your ideal weight by the Broca, Creff and Hamwi formulas from height, sex, age and body frame, with their average and the WHO normal range (BMI 18.5–24.9).
Note: These calculations are for informational purposes only and do not replace professional tax or financial advice. All information without guarantee.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate my ideal weight?
Common formulas include Broca (height in cm minus 100), Creff (accounts for age and body frame), and BMI-based (target BMI of 22 times height squared). However, ideal weight is individual and depends on many factors.
Is BMI a reliable indicator of health?
BMI has limitations: it does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass, does not consider body fat distribution, and may not be accurate for athletes or elderly individuals. Waist circumference is an important additional measure.
Does this calculator replace a doctor visit?
No. This calculator provides general orientation only. For medical questions, or before starting a diet, therapy or treatment, always consult a qualified physician or therapist.
Guide
What is the Ideal Weight Calculator?
The ideal weight calculator computes ideal weight using various formulas and shows a healthy weight range.
How does the Ideal Weight Calculator work?
Enter height, sex, age and body frame. The calculator computes ideal weight using the Broca formula (height - 100, minus 10-15%), the Creff formula (with age and body frame) and the Hamwi formula, averages them and shows the WHO normal-weight range (BMI 18.5-24.9) as a span.
Key Data and Facts
Broca formula: ideal weight = (height in cm - 100) * 0.9 (men) or 0.85 (women). Creff formula: (height in cm - 100 + age / 10) * 0.9 * frame factor (0.9 / 1.0 / 1.1). Broca, Creff and Hamwi are historical rules of thumb, not a medical standard; the medical reference is the WHO BMI normal range: 18.5-24.9. Individual factors matter: muscle mass, body frame, etc.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to calculate your ideal weight step by step: 1. Enter your height: in cm, measured without shoes. 2. State your sex, age and body frame: Broca and Hamwi differ by sex, Creff takes age and body frame into account. 3. Apply the Broca formula: normal weight = height (cm) - 100. Ideal weight men = normal weight x 0.90. Ideal weight women = normal weight x 0.85. 4. BMI method as a comparison: the healthy BMI range is 18.5-24.9. From this it follows: lower limit = 18.5 x (height in m)2. Upper limit = 24.9 x (height in m)2. 5. Creff formula (takes age and body build into account): ideal weight = (height in cm - 100 + age / 10) x 0.9 x build factor – slim 0.9, normal 1.0, sturdy 1.1; it is the same for women and men. Hamwi formula: men 48 kg for 152.4 cm plus 2.7 kg per 2.54 cm above that, women 45.4 kg plus 2.2 kg per 2.54 cm; -10 % for a slim and +10 % for a sturdy build. 6. Interpret the result: the ideal weight is a guide value. Individual factors such as muscle mass, bone structure and state of health are equally relevant.
Calculation Example
Woman, 170 cm, 30 years, normal build: Broca normal weight = 170 - 100 = 70 kg, ideal weight = 70 x 0.85 = 59.5 kg. Creff: (170 - 100 + 30 / 10) x 0.9 x 1.0 = 65.7 kg. Hamwi: 45.4 + (170 - 152.4) / 2.54 x 2.2 = 60.6 kg. Average of the three formulas: 61.9 kg. Normal BMI range: 18.5 x 1.70² = 53.5 kg to 24.9 x 1.70² = 72.0 kg.
Sources
Official sources
Calculations are based on applicable German laws and official data:
Full methodology at Methodology.
Reviewed by Konstantin Iakovlev · Last updated:
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