Peterson Equation
The Peterson Equation is an formula for estimating ideal body weight based on standing height. It is an improvement on the Devine Formula which underestimates body weight at shorter heights and overestimates it for people of higher stature.
equipment required: stadiometer for measuring height.
procedure: Estimate an ideal body weight using either the metric or imerial unit formula below, using a target BMI (commonly 22 is used). Use the same formula for men and women. For example, a man 1.82m tall has an ideal weight of 73 kg (2.2x22 + 3.5x22x(1.82-1.5))
Ideal Weight (kg) = 2.2 x BMItarget + 3.5 x BMItarget x (Height (m) - 1.5 m)
Ideal Weight (lb) = (5 x BMItarget ) + (BMItarget / 5)) x (Height (in) - 60 in)
target population: these equations are suitable for the general population, and only applicable for people at least 60 inches (5 foot) tall.
advantages: this is a simple calculation from a single standard height measurement.
disadvantages: this is a general approximation which may not suit all populations.
reference: Peterson C.M., Thomas D.M., Blackburn G.L., Heymsfield S.B. (2016) "Universal equation for estimating ideal body weight and body weight at any BMI" The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 103(5):1197-1203
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- Calculating Ideal Weight
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