Waist-to-height ratio calculator
Divide your waist by your height (same units) to get your waist-to-height ratio. Keeping your waist under half your height — a ratio below 0.5 — is a simple, evidence-backed health target.
Aim to keep your waist under half your height (a ratio below 0.5).
What is Waist-to-Height Ratio?
Waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) is your waist circumference divided by your height. Because it reflects central (abdominal) fat, it predicts cardiometabolic risk better than BMI and holds across heights and builds. The public-health rule of thumb in the UK is to keep your waist to less than half your height.
How to use it
- 1Measure your waist. Measure around your middle, level with your belly button, relaxed, in centimetres.
- 2Enter your height. Input your height in the same units (centimetres).
- 3Read your ratio. Your waist-to-height ratio and risk category appear instantly.
Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator — questions
What is a healthy waist-to-height ratio?
Below 0.5 — keep your waist to less than half your height. 0.5–0.6 suggests increased risk and above 0.6 high risk. It applies to most adults regardless of height.
Is waist-to-height ratio better than BMI?
For health-risk screening, often yes — it captures abdominal fat, which BMI ignores, and needs only a tape measure. Use both together for a fuller picture.
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