Female ideal-weight formulas use a slightly lower baseline than male formulas, reflecting average differences in essential body fat and bone density. Here's the medium-frame ideal weight for women at common heights, with the small-to-large frame range alongside it.
| Height | Frame Range (Small–Large) | Medium Frame |
|---|---|---|
| 150 cm (4'11") | 43.4–53.1 kg | 48.3 kg |
| 155 cm (5'1") | 45.2–55.2 kg | 50.2 kg |
| 160 cm (5'3") | 48.5–59.3 kg | 53.9 kg |
| 165 cm (5'5") | 51.9–63.4 kg | 57.7 kg |
| 170 cm (5'7") | 55.2–67.5 kg | 61.4 kg |
| 175 cm (5'9") | 58.6–71.6 kg | 65.1 kg |
| 180 cm (5'11") | 61.9–75.7 kg | 68.8 kg |
Range reflects the ±10% small-to-large frame adjustment applied to the 4-formula average.
Factors that matter more for women
Essential body fat
Women naturally carry a higher percentage of essential body fat than men at the same relative fitness level, which is reflected in the lower baseline used by these formulas — it isn't a sign of being "less lean," it's a normal physiological difference.
Life stage
Pregnancy, postpartum recovery and menopause can all shift healthy weight and body composition for a period of time. These formulas assume a non-pregnant adult baseline and aren't designed to guide weight during pregnancy.
Frame size
As with men, wrist-to-height ratio is used as a simple proxy for bone structure. Smaller-framed women will sit toward the lower end of the healthy range at a given height, and larger-framed women toward the higher end.
Pregnant or postpartum? Please talk to your doctor or midwife about your healthy weight range during this time rather than relying on this or any general calculator.
Formula Average
Devine, Robinson, Miller and Hamwi combined for a female baseline.
Frame-Adjusted
±10% for small or large wrist-to-height ratio.
Life-Stage Aware
Not intended for use during pregnancy or postpartum recovery.