Purpose and steps
Shows the Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi height-based estimates plus their average. These are rough references, not a personal optimum.
- Choose units and use the pre-pregnancy, resting or current measurements requested by the tool; keep observation dates consistent.
- Prepare Height. Defaults demonstrate the model rather than your personal circumstances.
- Check the headline result and its components. A key interpretation for this tool is: Read the result as a range created by several historical equations.
- Compare the baseline with a changed scenario: A personal goal may sit outside this range and still be appropriate.
Input reference and units
These values reproduce the model’s demonstration. Replace them with your own records or measurements; they are not recommended targets.
On a small screen, swipe the table horizontally to see all columns.
| Parameter | Demonstration value | How to enter it |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 170 cm | Use the definition shown in the field label; keep this assumption consistent when comparing scenarios. |
Model-specific method
How this calculator produces its result
For women at 5 ft: Devine and Hamwi start at 45.5 kg, Robinson at 49 kg, and Miller at 53.1 kg. Each formula adds a different amount per inch over 5 ft.
Empirical equations are fitted estimates
A fitted formula summarizes a relationship observed in a study population. Coefficients such as calories per kilogram are not universal laws. Use the prescribed units, population and inputs; a model derived from adults may be unsuitable for children or pregnancy.
Averaging several formula outputs summarizes their center but does not remove their shared limitations. Likewise, showing a result to one decimal place does not mean the real-world quantity is known to that precision. Compare estimates with observations and discuss health decisions with qualified care staff.
Linear model: y = a + b₁x₁ + b₂x₂ + … Arithmetic mean = sum of estimates / number of estimates Prediction error ≠ display-rounding error
- a: fitted intercept
- b: fitted coefficient with its own unit
- x: measured input in the equation’s required unit
- Prediction: estimate within the model’s intended population
Worked example
At 5 ft 5 in, the four estimates are about 57.0, 57.5, 59.9, and 56.5 kg; their average is about 57.7 kg.
Reproduce the default scenario
This is a separate example, calculated using the exact engine on the tool page and the defaults in the input reference above. Health examples use metric units. Displayed rounding may differ from intermediate precision.
- Average of four formulas
- 61.4 kg
- Devine formula
- 61.4 kg
- Robinson formula
- 60.8 kg
- Miller formula
- 62.5 kg
- Hamwi formula
- 60.7 kg
Reading results without overstating them
- Read the result as a range created by several historical equations.
- A personal goal may sit outside this range and still be appropriate.
Assumptions and exclusions
- Pregnancy, age, muscle mass, frame size, and medical history are not considered.
- The word “ideal” is historical terminology and does not mean medically optimal.
Sources and content notes
Toolify describes the implemented algorithm and its assumptions. Sources below support the topic or applicable rules; they do not endorse this calculator. Examples are illustrative, and published rules take precedence over simplified estimates.
Report a formula, example or translation issue through our contact page. Include the tool name, inputs and expected result so it can be reproduced. Contact Toolify