Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
Measure your waist and height in the same unit to get your waist-to-height ratio.
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Formula
Waist-to-height ratio = waist / height (same unit for both)
| Ratio | Category |
|---|---|
| below 0.40 | Low |
| 0.40 to 0.49 | Healthy |
| 0.50 to 0.59 | Increased risk |
| 0.60 or more | High risk |
Worked example
Waist 80 cm, height 175 cm: 80 / 175 = 0.457, shown as 0.46, which is healthy. Half your height is 87.5 cm.
Frequently asked questions
What is the waist-to-height ratio?
Your waist circumference divided by your height, in the same unit. A waist of 80 cm at 175 cm tall gives 80 / 175 = 0.46.
What is a healthy waist-to-height ratio?
Keeping your waist under half your height (a ratio below 0.5) is the common guideline. 0.40 to 0.49 is generally considered healthy, 0.5 to 0.59 shows increased risk and 0.6 or more high risk.
How do I measure my waist?
Stand relaxed and breathe out normally. Wrap a tape measure around your bare waist midway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone, snug but not compressing.
How is it different from BMI?
BMI uses weight, while this ratio looks at where fat sits. Waist-to-height needs no weight and can flag abdominal fat in people with a normal BMI. It is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.