5'10 Male Ideal Weight: Devine, Robinson & Miller Formulas
Detailed calculation of ideal weight for a 5 foot 10 inch male using Devine, Robinson, and Miller formulas. See step-by-step math and weight range interpretation.
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How This Works
For a 5'10" male, the three medical formulas produce a narrow 2.3 kg range, all falling between 70-73 kg (155-160 lbs). This represents a typical healthy weight for an average-framed man of this height.
Step-by-Step Calculations
Converting Height to Inches
5 feet 10 inches = (5 × 12) + 10 = 60 + 10 = 70 inches total
Inches over 5 feet (60 inches) = 70 - 60 = 10 inches
1. Devine Formula (1974)
Formula for men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet
Calculation: 50 + (2.3 × 10) = 50 + 23 = 73 kg (161 lbs)
Most widely used in medical settings for drug dosing and nutritional assessments.
2. Robinson Formula (1983)
Formula for men: 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch over 5 feet
Calculation: 52 + (1.9 × 10) = 52 + 19 = 71 kg (157 lbs)
Modified version using larger, more diverse population sample.
3. Miller Formula (1983)
Formula for men: 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch over 5 feet
Calculation: 56.2 + (1.41 × 10) = 56.2 + 14.1 = 70.3 kg (155 lbs)
Produces most conservative estimates, especially for taller individuals.
Understanding the Range: 70-73 kg (155-161 lbs)
The 2.3 kg (6 lb) spread between formulas is quite narrow for this height, suggesting good consensus. This range represents ideal weight for a man with an average frame. Here's how to interpret it:
- Small frame: Aim for 68-71 kg (150-157 lbs) — at or slightly below Miller's estimate
- Medium frame: Target 70-73 kg (155-161 lbs) — the calculated range
- Large frame: Healthy at 73-77 kg (161-170 lbs) — at or above Devine's estimate
Frame Size Determination
Measure wrist circumference at the narrowest point:
- Small frame: Wrist < 15 cm (6")
- Medium frame: Wrist 15-18 cm (6-7")
- Large frame: Wrist > 18 cm (7")
Real-World Application
A 5'10" male weighing 72 kg (159 lbs) falls right in the middle of the ideal range. But what if your actual weight differs?
If You Weigh More (e.g., 80 kg / 176 lbs)
This is 7-10 kg above the range. Check these factors before assuming you need to lose weight:
- Muscle mass: If you lift weights regularly, extra weight may be muscle (healthy)
- Body fat percentage: If under 18%, your higher weight is likely healthy muscle mass
- Waist circumference: Under 94 cm (37") indicates low health risk regardless of weight
- Frame size: Large frame naturally carries more weight (bone and muscle)
If You Weigh Less (e.g., 65 kg / 143 lbs)
This is 5-8 kg below the range. Consider:
- Small frame: May be perfectly healthy if you have a naturally petite build
- Endurance athlete: Runners/cyclists often maintain lower weights for performance
- Low muscle mass: If sedentary, consider resistance training to build muscle even without gaining much weight
- Unintentional loss: If weight dropped without trying, consult healthcare provider
Beyond Weight: Body Composition Matters
Two 5'10" men at 72 kg can have very different health profiles:
Scenario A: Athletic Build
- Weight: 72 kg (159 lbs)
- Body fat: 12% (8.6 kg fat, 63.4 kg lean mass)
- Waist: 79 cm (31")
- Activity: Lifts 3x/week, plays sports
- Assessment: Excellent health, high muscle mass
Scenario B: Sedentary Build
- Weight: 72 kg (159 lbs)
- Body fat: 24% (17.3 kg fat, 54.7 kg lean mass)
- Waist: 92 cm (36")
- Activity: Minimal exercise
- Assessment: Could benefit from muscle building and fat reduction, despite being at "ideal weight"
Adjusting for Activity Level
- Sedentary/office work: Aim for lower-middle of range (70-71 kg) unless you have large frame
- Moderately active: Middle of range (71-72 kg) is optimal
- Very active/athlete: Upper range or above (73-77 kg) is healthy with higher muscle mass
Age Considerations
- 20s-30s: Can comfortably maintain lower-middle of range
- 40s-50s: Being 2-3 kg heavier than in 20s is normal and healthy
- 60+: Slightly higher weight (upper end of range) may be protective for bone and muscle health
When the Formulas May Not Apply
These calculations are less accurate if you:
- Are a competitive athlete or bodybuilder (high muscle mass)
- Have very low muscle mass from sedentary lifestyle
- Are recovering from illness or injury
- Have significant body composition goals beyond "average healthy"
In these cases, focus on body fat percentage and lean mass rather than scale weight.
Healthy Weight Goals
If you're outside the 70-73 kg range and want to move toward it:
If You Need to Lose Weight
- Aim for 0.5-1 kg per week (sustainable pace)
- Prioritize fat loss while preserving muscle (resistance training + adequate protein)
- Focus on waist circumference reduction alongside scale weight
If You Need to Gain Weight
- Target 0.25-0.5 kg per week (mostly muscle, not fat)
- Emphasize strength training to build lean mass
- Increase calories gradually with nutrient-dense foods
Bottom Line
For a 5'10" male, the ideal weight range of 70-73 kg (155-161 lbs) provides a solid reference point. However, your personal ideal should account for frame size (±5 kg), muscle mass, activity level, and age. Rather than obsessing over a specific number, aim for a 3-5 kg range where you maintain healthy body composition, feel energetic, and can sustain with reasonable diet and exercise habits.
If you're significantly outside this range, verify your health status with body fat percentage and metabolic markers (blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol) rather than relying on weight alone.
Factors Beyond Formulas That Influence Ideal Weight
While formulas provide a mathematical starting point, real-world ideal weight depends on additional factors. Body composition (muscle vs. fat) significantly affects health outcomes—two men with the same BMI may have different health risks based on fat distribution. Muscle mass increases weight without fat gain, while visceral fat poses greater health risks. Age and activity level also matter: older adults may need higher BMI ranges for bone health, while athletes may safely exceed ideal weight ranges. Genetic factors, metabolism, and hormonal balance further personalize what constitutes a 'healthy' weight for individual bodies.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
If your actual weight falls outside the 70-73 kg range, it's important to consider why. Weight differences of 10-15% above or below the calculated range may still be healthy depending on your frame size and lifestyle. However, if you're significantly underweight (below 65 kg) or overweight (above 80 kg) with symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or breathing difficulties, consult a GP. Medical professionals can assess body fat percentage, muscle mass, and overall health to determine if weight adjustment is necessary. Remember, these formulas are general guides—individual health needs vary based on medical history, family genetics, and daily activity levels.
Why Ideal Weight Calculations Matter for Health
Ideal weight calculations serve as important baseline tools in healthcare settings, particularly when determining appropriate medication dosages, assessing nutritional needs, or evaluating health risks. While these formulas don't define perfect health, they offer a useful reference point for healthcare professionals to identify potential weight-related concerns. For individuals, understanding these calculations can help set realistic fitness goals and monitor progress over time. It's important to note that ideal weight is just one factor in overall health, alongside body composition, muscle mass, and lifestyle factors. These formulas work best as starting points rather than absolute measures of health status.
Limitations of Traditional Ideal Weight Formulas
Traditional ideal weight formulas like Devine, Robinson, and Miller were developed decades ago using specific population samples that may not reflect today's diverse demographics. These calculations don't account for variations in muscle mass, bone density, or body composition differences among individuals. For instance, athletes or muscular individuals may weigh significantly more than calculated ideals while remaining healthy. Additionally, these formulas assume a uniform relationship between height and weight across all populations, which isn't always accurate. Modern healthcare professionals often use additional metrics like BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, or body fat percentage alongside these calculations for a more comprehensive health assessment.
How to Use Ideal Weight Information in Daily Life
Understanding your ideal weight range can help guide healthy lifestyle choices without creating unrealistic expectations. If you're working toward a target weight, use these calculations as motivation rather than a strict rule. Consider consulting with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your unique health profile. For those aiming to maintain or lose weight, tracking progress within the ideal range can be more motivating than focusing on a single number. Remember that weight fluctuates naturally due to factors like hydration levels, muscle gain, and hormonal changes. The key is consistency in healthy habits rather than achieving an exact weight figure.
Why Ideal Weight Calculations Matter for Health
Ideal weight calculations serve as important baseline tools in healthcare settings, particularly for determining appropriate medication dosages and assessing nutritional needs. While these formulas provide useful estimates, they should be interpreted within the broader context of an individual's overall health profile. Healthcare professionals often use these metrics to identify potential weight-related health risks or to establish realistic weight management goals. It's crucial to remember that ideal weight is not a fixed number but rather a range that can vary based on factors such as muscle mass, bone density, and overall body composition. These calculations are especially valuable for individuals who may be overweight or underweight, helping to guide appropriate lifestyle interventions.
Limitations of Standard Ideal Weight Formulas
Despite their widespread use, standard ideal weight formulas have inherent limitations that users should understand. These formulas were developed using historical population data and may not accurately reflect modern body composition trends. Factors such as increased muscle mass in contemporary populations, changes in lifestyle, and varying ethnic backgrounds can affect the applicability of these calculations. Additionally, these formulas do not account for individual variations in bone density, fat distribution, or overall body composition. For instance, athletes with high muscle mass may fall outside these ranges yet still be in excellent health. The formulas also don't consider age-related changes in metabolism or the impact of certain medical conditions on weight management. Therefore, while useful as starting points, these calculations should complement rather than replace professional medical assessment.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While ideal weight calculations provide helpful guidance, they should not replace professional medical advice. If you're significantly outside the calculated range or have concerns about your weight, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended. A medical professional can assess your overall health status, considering factors like body fat percentage, muscle mass, and any underlying health conditions. They may also recommend additional tests such as BMI calculations, waist-to-hip ratio measurements, or body composition analysis for a more comprehensive evaluation. For individuals planning significant weight changes or those with chronic conditions, professional guidance ensures safe and effective approaches to weight management. Remember that healthy weight is not solely about numerical values but encompasses overall wellness and lifestyle factors.
Why Ideal Weight Calculations Matter for Health
Ideal weight calculations serve as important baseline tools in healthcare settings, particularly when determining appropriate medication dosages, assessing nutritional needs, or evaluating health risks. While these formulas don't define perfect health, they offer a useful reference point for healthcare professionals to identify potential weight-related concerns. For individuals, understanding these calculations can help set realistic fitness goals and monitor progress over time. It's important to note that ideal weight is just one factor in overall health, alongside body composition, muscle mass, and lifestyle factors. These formulas work best as starting points rather than absolute measures of health status.
Limitations of Traditional Ideal Weight Formulas
Traditional ideal weight formulas like Devine, Robinson, and Miller were developed decades ago using specific population samples that may not reflect today's diverse demographics. These calculations don't account for variations in muscle mass, bone density, or body composition differences among individuals. For instance, athletes or muscular individuals may weigh significantly more than calculated ideals while remaining healthy. Additionally, these formulas assume a uniform relationship between height and weight across all populations, which isn' always accurate. Modern healthcare professionals often use additional metrics like BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, or body fat percentage alongside these calculations for a more comprehensive health assessment.
How to Use Ideal Weight Information in Daily Life
Understanding your ideal weight range can help guide healthy lifestyle choices without creating unrealistic expectations. If you're working toward a target weight, use these calculations as motivation rather than a strict rule. Consider consulting with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your unique health profile. For those aiming to maintain or lose weight, tracking progress within the ideal range can be more motivating than focusing on a single number. Remember that weight fluctuates naturally due to factors like hydration levels, muscle gain, and hormonal changes. The key is consistency in healthy habits rather than achieving an exact weight figure.
Why Ideal Weight Calculations Matter for Health
Ideal weight calculations serve as important baseline tools in healthcare settings, particularly for determining appropriate medication dosages and assessing nutritional needs. While these formulas provide useful estimates, they should be interpreted within the broader context of an individual's overall health profile. Healthcare professionals often use these metrics to identify potential weight-related health risks or to establish realistic weight management goals. It's crucial to remember that ideal weight is not a fixed number but rather a range that can vary based on factors such as muscle mass, bone density, and overall body composition. These calculations are especially valuable for individuals who may be overweight or underweight, helping to guide appropriate lifestyle interventions.
Limitations of Standard Ideal Weight Formulas
Despite their widespread use, standard ideal weight formulas have inherent limitations that users should understand. These formulas were developed using historical population data and may not accurately reflect modern body composition trends. Factors such as increased muscle mass in contemporary populations, changes in lifestyle, and varying ethnic backgrounds can affect the applicability of these calculations. Additionally, these formulas do not account for individual variations in bone density, fat distribution, or overall body composition. For instance, athletes with high muscle mass may fall outside these ranges yet still be in excellent health. The formulas also don't consider age-related changes in metabolism or the impact of certain medical conditions on weight management. Therefore, while useful as starting points, these calculations should complement rather than replace professional medical assessment.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While ideal weight calculations provide helpful guidance, they should not replace professional medical advice. If you're significantly outside the calculated range or have concerns about your weight, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended. A medical professional can assess your overall health status, considering factors like body fat percentage, muscle mass, and any underlying health conditions. They may also recommend additional tests such as BMI calculations, waist-to-hip ratio measurements, or body composition analysis for a more comprehensive evaluation. For individuals planning significant weight changes or those with chronic conditions, professional guidance ensures safe and effective approaches to weight management. Remember that healthy weight is not solely about numerical values but encompasses overall wellness and lifestyle factors.
Why Ideal Weight Calculations Matter for Health
Ideal weight calculations serve as important baseline tools in healthcare settings, particularly when determining appropriate medication dosages, assessing nutritional needs, or evaluating health risks. While these formulas don't define perfect health, they offer a useful reference point for healthcare professionals to identify potential weight-related concerns. For individuals, understanding these calculations can help set realistic fitness goals and monitor progress over time. It's important to note that ideal weight is just one factor in overall health, alongside body composition, muscle mass, and lifestyle factors. These formulas work best as starting points rather than absolute measures of health status.
Limitations of Traditional Ideal Weight Formulas
Traditional ideal weight formulas like Devine, Robinson, and Miller were developed decades ago using specific population samples that may not reflect today's diverse demographics. These calculations don't account for variations in muscle mass, bone density, or body composition differences among individuals. For instance, athletes or muscular individuals may weigh significantly more than calculated ideals while remaining healthy. Additionally, these formulas assume a uniform relationship between height and weight across all populations, which isn' always accurate. Modern healthcare professionals often use additional metrics like BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, or body fat percentage alongside these calculations for a more comprehensive health assessment.
How to Use Ideal Weight Information in Daily Life
Understanding your ideal weight range can help guide healthy lifestyle choices without creating unrealistic expectations. If you're working toward a target weight, use these calculations as motivation rather than a strict rule. Consider consulting with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your unique health profile. For those aiming to maintain or lose weight, tracking progress within the ideal range can be more motivating than focusing on a single number. Remember that weight fluctuates naturally due to factors like hydration levels, muscle gain, and hormonal changes. The key is consistency in healthy habits rather than achieving an exact weight figure.
Why Ideal Weight Calculations Matter for Health
Ideal weight calculations serve as important baseline tools in healthcare settings, particularly for determining appropriate medication dosages and assessing nutritional needs. While these formulas provide useful estimates, they should be interpreted within the broader context of an individual's overall health profile. Healthcare professionals often use these metrics to identify potential weight-related health risks or to establish realistic weight management goals. It's crucial to remember that ideal weight is not a fixed number but rather a range that can vary based on factors such as muscle mass, bone density, and overall body composition. These calculations are especially valuable for individuals who may be overweight or underweight, helping to guide appropriate lifestyle interventions.
Limitations of Standard Ideal Weight Formulas
Despite their widespread use, standard ideal weight formulas have inherent limitations that users should understand. These formulas were developed using historical population data and may not accurately reflect modern body composition trends. Factors such as increased muscle mass in contemporary populations, changes in lifestyle, and varying ethnic backgrounds can affect the applicability of these calculations. Additionally, these formulas do not account for individual variations in bone density, fat distribution, or overall body composition. For instance, athletes with high muscle mass may fall outside these ranges yet still be in excellent health. The formulas also don't consider age-related changes in metabolism or the impact of certain medical conditions on weight management. Therefore, while useful as starting points, these calculations should complement rather than replace professional medical assessment.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While ideal weight calculations provide helpful guidance, they should not replace professional medical advice. If you're significantly outside the calculated range or have concerns about your weight, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended. A medical professional can assess your overall health status, considering factors like body fat percentage, muscle mass, and any underlying health conditions. They may also recommend additional tests such as BMI calculations, waist-to-hip ratio measurements, or body composition analysis for a more comprehensive evaluation. For individuals planning significant weight changes or those with chronic conditions, professional guidance ensures safe and effective approaches to weight management. Remember that healthy weight is not solely about numerical values but encompasses overall wellness and lifestyle factors.