Question 1

Which ideal weight formula is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

No single formula is universally accurate. The BMI-based range (18.5–22.9 for Asians) is the most clinically relevant for Indians. The Hamwi formula is widely used in Indian clinical practice. This calculator shows all 5 formulas so you can see the range — your ideal weight likely falls within the overlap zone.

Question 2

Why is the ideal weight range different for Indians?

Accepted Answer

Indians have higher body fat at the same BMI compared to Western populations. The WHO Asia-Pacific guidelines use a lower normal BMI range (18.5–22.9 vs 18.5–24.9). This means the ideal weight for an Indian person is lower than what Western formulas suggest.

Question 3

Does body frame size affect ideal weight?

Accepted Answer

Yes. People with larger bone structures (wider wrists, broader shoulders) naturally weigh more. The formulas here don't account for frame size. As a rough guide: small frame = lower end of range, large frame = upper end. Wrist circumference can indicate frame size: <15cm (small), 15–17cm (medium), >17cm (large) for women.

Question 4

Is ideal weight the same as healthy weight?

Accepted Answer

Not exactly. Ideal weight formulas give a single number or narrow range based on height and gender. Healthy weight is broader. You can be healthy at various weights depending on muscle mass, body fat distribution, and metabolic health. Use ideal weight as a reference point, not an absolute target.

Question 5

How much should an Indian woman of 5'4" weigh?

Accepted Answer

For a woman at 163 cm (5'4"), the ideal weight range using Asian BMI standards is 49–61 kg. The Hamwi formula gives 54.4 kg, Devine gives 57.2 kg. A healthy target for most Indian women at this height is 52–58 kg.

Question 6

Should I aim for the lowest ideal weight?

Accepted Answer

No. Aiming for the lowest number can lead to muscle loss and nutritional deficiencies. A better approach: aim for the middle of the BMI-based range, focus on body composition (muscle vs fat) rather than just scale weight, and prioritise how you feel and your health markers over a number.

Ideal Weight Calculator for Indians

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