Ideal Weight Calculator

Calculate your ideal weight using the Lorenz, Broca, and Van der Vael formulas, plus the BMI normal range for your height and sex.

How to Calculate Your Ideal Weight

Your ideal weight is a theoretical reference indicating the optimal weight for your height and sex. There is no single "perfect" number -- it is more accurate to think of a weight range within which you should stay to reduce health risks.

The Formulas Used

This calculator applies three classic formulas:

Lorenz Formula (most widely used):

Men: height(cm) - 100 - (height - 150) / 4
Women: height(cm) - 100 - (height - 150) / 2

Broca Formula (simplest):

Men: height(cm) - 100
Women: height(cm) - 104

Van der Vael Formula:

(height - 150) x 0.75 + 50

Additionally, the calculator shows the normal weight range based on BMI (18.5-24.9), which is the method most recommended by international guidelines.

How It Works

Enter your sex and height. Optionally, you can specify your body frame (slim, medium, large) to refine the Lorenz formula result. The calculator returns results from all formulas and the BMI range, so you can compare different references.

Why the Formulas Give Different Results

Each formula was developed with different criteria and in different eras. The Broca formula is the oldest and tends to overestimate ideal weight for very tall people. The Lorenz formula is more refined because it accounts for sex. The BMI range is the most modern and flexible method, providing an interval rather than a single value.

When to Consult a Doctor

If your current weight is significantly different from the calculated ideal weight, it is important not to start drastic diets without medical advice. A BMI calculation can help classify your situation, while body fat percentage provides information about body composition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is ideal weight calculated?▼

There are several formulas for calculating ideal weight. The most well-known is the Lorenz formula, which considers height and sex: for men, height-100-(height-150)/4; for women, height-100-(height-150)/2. Other common formulas are Broca and Van der Vael. The most reliable method is the normalized BMI range (18.5-24.9), which provides a range rather than a single value.

What is the difference between ideal weight and healthy weight?▼

Ideal weight is a theoretical value calculated with mathematical formulas based on height and sex. Healthy weight is a broader concept that includes subjective well-being, body composition, and overall health status. Two people of the same height can have different healthy weights based on muscle mass and bone structure.

Does body frame affect ideal weight?▼

Yes, bone structure significantly affects ideal weight. A person with a large frame (wide bones, broad shoulders) will naturally weigh more than a slim person of the same height. You can estimate body frame by measuring wrist circumference: a small wrist indicates a slim frame, while a large wrist indicates a large frame.

Are ideal weight formulas accurate?▼

Traditional formulas (Lorenz, Broca) are approximate estimates developed decades ago. They do not consider body composition, age, or activity level. The BMI range offers a more flexible estimate. For a complete assessment, it is best to supplement with body fat measurements and a medical consultation.