Healthy weight, ideal weight and weight goals: the difference
“Healthy weight”, “ideal weight” and “weight goal” are often used as if they meant the same thing. They answer different questions: one is a population reference, one is a historical calculation, and one is a personal preference or practical aim.
A healthy weight range is an adult reference interval
For adults, the WHO BMI reference range can be converted into a weight interval for a given height. It provides a common public-health reference, not a complete picture of one person’s health.
The calculation uses height and weight only. It does not measure muscle, fat distribution, eating habits, activity, symptoms or medical history.
Ideal weight is usually a formula label
An “ideal weight” is commonly the single output of a historical formula such as Lorentz, Devine or Creff. A precise-looking number can be memorable, but precision in the display is not personalised medical precision.
These formulas should not be used to rank bodies or to set a mandatory target. Their value today is mainly explanatory: they show why different websites can produce different single numbers.
A weight of comfort is personal and changes with context
People sometimes use “weight of comfort” for a weight at which they feel stable in daily life. It is not a medical category and cannot be inferred from height alone.
If weight change, appetite, fatigue or another symptom is worrying, a health professional can assess the situation in context rather than through a generic target.
Healthy weight range by height
Open a height guide to see the adult WHO reference range calculated for that height.
| Height | Adult WHO reference | Open guide |
|---|---|---|
| 150cm | 41.6–56.3 kg | Open guide 150cm |
| 155cm | 44.4–60.1 kg | Open guide 155cm |
| 160cm | 47.4–64.0 kg | Open guide 160cm |
| 165cm | 50.4–68.1 kg | Open guide 165cm |
| 170cm | 53.5–72.3 kg | Open guide 170cm |
| 175cm | 56.7–76.6 kg | Open guide 175cm |
| 180cm | 59.9–81.0 kg | Open guide 180cm |
| 185cm | 63.3–85.6 kg | Open guide 185cm |
| 190cm | 66.8–90.3 kg | Open guide 190cm |
| 195cm | 70.3–95.1 kg | Open guide 195cm |
Frequently asked questions
Is healthy weight the same as ideal weight?
No. A healthy weight range is a BMI-based adult population reference; ideal weight usually means a single output from a historical formula. Neither is a personalised diagnosis.
Should I aim for the middle of the healthy weight range?
No. The range is an interval, not a bullseye. A midpoint has no special status, and a generic calculation cannot set a personal goal.
Is a weight of comfort a medical term?
No. It is an everyday expression for a personal, lived experience. It should not be confused with a clinical assessment or a WHO category.
This tool is informational and does not constitute a diagnosis or medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.