Estimate ideal body weight with the Robinson formula (1983)—a widely cited alternative to Devine that uses lower base weights and gentler per-inch slopes for many heights.
Formula
Height is converted to inches: inches = cm ÷ 2.54. Let h = inches above 5 feet (60 inches).
- Male: IBW (kg) = 52 + 1.9 × h
- Female: IBW (kg) = 49 + 1.7 × h
Results are rounded to one decimal place. Valid height range is 100–250 cm.
When to use it
Benchmark Robinson against Devine and Miller for the same person, study mid-1980s IBW revisions, or approximate nutrition screening weights where Robinson remains the institutional default.
Limitations
Robinson does not account for muscularity, pregnancy, or pediatric growth. Like sibling formulas, it is a population regression—not a personal optimum. Short stature (below 152 cm) yields negative h, pulling estimates below the sex-specific base weight.
Example
A 183 cm male: h ≈ 12.0 inches → IBW ≈ 52 + 1.9 × 12.0 ≈ 74.8 kg.
Health disclaimer
Ideal weight formulas are educational benchmarks—not diagnoses or treatment targets. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing diet, exercise, or medication dosing based on these estimates.