Your waist-to-height ratio is a quick screening measure that works alongside BMI. The rule of thumb, used by health bodies such as the NHS, is simple: keep your waist less than half your height. Enter your measurements below - everything is calculated privately in your browser.
This is a screening measure used alongside BMI, not a diagnosis. The NHS notes it is not suitable for children under 18, during pregnancy, or for adults with a BMI over 35. For personal advice, speak with a healthcare provider.
Waist-to-height ratio is your waist measurement divided by your height, in the same units. Because it focuses on the waist, it captures something BMI cannot: where you carry weight. Fat stored around the abdomen is more strongly associated with health risk than fat elsewhere, so the two measures are most useful together.
This is a screening signal, not a diagnosis. To see the bigger picture, compare it with your BMI, read our guide to BMI vs body fat percentage, and discuss any concerns with a qualified healthcare provider.
A ratio below 0.5 is generally considered healthy. In other words, keep your waist measurement less than half your height. A ratio of 0.5 to 0.59 suggests increased risk and 0.6 or above the highest risk, while below 0.4 is under the typical healthy range. It is a screening measure, not a diagnosis.
BMI uses only height and weight, so it cannot show where you carry fat. Fat stored around the abdomen carries different health associations than fat elsewhere. Waist-to-height ratio adds that missing information, which is why bodies like the NHS suggest using the two together.
Measure around your middle, roughly level with your belly button, after breathing out gently and without pulling the tape tight. Use the same units for your waist and height so the ratio is correct.
The NHS notes the ratio is not suitable for children under 18, during pregnancy, or for adults with a BMI over 35. If any of these apply, or you have health concerns, speak with a healthcare provider.
This tool provides general educational information and is not medical advice. Waist-to-height ratio is a screening measure, not a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal health questions. See our medical disclaimer.