Lorentz, Devine and Creff: ideal weight formulas compared
Lorentz, Devine and Creff are often presented as routes to a single “ideal” number. They are better understood as historical calculation rules. Comparing their origin and inputs makes their limits clearer than comparing their outputs.
Three formulas, three starting points
The Lorentz formula is a simple height-based rule that became popular because it is easy to calculate. It was not built to assess an individual’s health or body composition.
The Devine formula was introduced for a clinical dosing context. Its later use as an “ideal weight” figure changes neither its original purpose nor its limited inputs.
The Creff formula combines height with age. Adding a variable can make a formula look more personal, but it still does not measure body composition, medical history or day-to-day health.
Why agreement between formulas proves little
Two historical formulas may land near one another for a given height while resting on different conventions. That numerical proximity is not validation and does not turn either result into a medical goal.
A single calculated value also hides normal variation. Weight, hydration and context change; a formula cannot decide which number is right for one particular person.
Use the adult WHO range as a reference, not a verdict
For adults, the site uses the weight interval corresponding to the WHO BMI reference range as a population-level reference. It is an interval rather than a prescribed personal target.
Historical formulas are not appropriate for children or teenagers. Their growth is assessed with age- and sex-specific growth references, not an adult ideal-weight equation.
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
Which ideal weight formula is the most accurate?
None of these historical formulas can determine a medically appropriate weight for an individual. They use limited measurements and are best treated as historical benchmarks, not as targets.
Why do Lorentz, Devine and Creff give different results?
They were developed from different assumptions and use different inputs. A difference between their results is a reminder that there is no single formula-defined ideal weight.
Can these formulas be used for teenagers?
No. Adult ideal-weight formulas are not a way to assess children or teenagers. Growth references that account for age and sex are used instead.
This tool is informational and does not constitute a diagnosis or medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.