The Hamwi formula is a method used to estimate ideal body weight based on height and gender. For men, the formula suggests starting with 106 pounds for the first 5 feet of height and adding 6 pounds for each additional inch. For women, it starts at 100 pounds for the first 5 feet and adds 5 pounds for each additional inch. This formula provides a simple guideline for assessing body weight, but it does not account for factors like muscle mass or body composition. It is often used in clinical settings to help determine weight-related health risks.