Ideal Body Weight (IBW) Equations:
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Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is an estimate of healthy weight range based on height, gender, and frame size (bone structure).
The calculator uses these equations:
Where:
Details: BMI helps classify weight status (underweight, normal, overweight, obese). IBW provides target weight range for medical purposes like medication dosing and nutritional assessment.
Tips: Enter height in inches, weight in pounds, select gender and frame size. All values must be valid (height > 0, weight > 0).
Q1: How do I determine my frame size?
A: Measure wrist circumference - small: men <6.5", women <6"; medium: men 6.5-7.5", women 6-6.5"; large: men >7.5", women >6.5".
Q2: What are normal BMI values?
A: Underweight: <18.5; Normal: 18.5-24.9; Overweight: 25-29.9; Obese: ≥30.
Q3: Are there limitations to IBW?
A: IBW doesn't account for muscle mass or body composition. Athletes may have higher weights due to muscle.
Q4: Should everyone aim for their IBW?
A: IBW is a general guideline. Individual health factors may make other weight ranges more appropriate.
Q5: How accurate is BMI?
A: BMI is a screening tool but doesn't directly measure body fat. It may misclassify muscular individuals as overweight.