Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), a simple measure of central body fat linked to heart and metabolic risk, with the risk category and the waist size that would put you under 0.5. Example: a 34 in waist at 70 in tall gives a ratio of 0.49, just under the 0.5 guideline.
Type the problems from this lesson and check each step.
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How to use the Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
- Enter the values in the fields.
- Press Calculate to see the result with the steps shown.
Formula and method
Waist-to-height ratio = waist circumference / height (same units). A ratio of 0.5 or more suggests higher central fat risk.
Waist-to-height ratio categories
| Ratio | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 0.40 | Underweight risk |
| 0.40 to 0.42 | Extremely slim |
| 0.43 to 0.49 | Healthy |
| 0.50 to 0.53 | Overweight |
| 0.54 to 0.57 | Very overweight |
| 0.58 and above | Morbidly obese |
Maximum waist for a ratio of 0.5
| Height | Waist (inches) | Waist (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 ft 0 in | 30.0 | 76 |
| 5 ft 4 in | 32.0 | 81 |
| 5 ft 8 in | 34.0 | 86 |
| 6 ft 0 in | 36.0 | 91 |
| 6 ft 4 in | 38.0 | 97 |
How to measure your waist
Stand and breathe out normally. Measure around the midpoint between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hip bones, usually at the navel.
Why it can beat BMI
Belly fat is more strongly tied to heart disease and diabetes than total weight. Two people with the same BMI can have different waist-to-height ratios and different risks.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good waist-to-height ratio?
0.43 to 0.49 is considered healthy; keep your waist under half your height.
How do I calculate it?
Divide waist circumference by height, using the same units.
Is the same cutoff used for men and women?
Yes, 0.5 is used for both.
Is it better than BMI?
For predicting central-fat risk, often yes, but both are screening tools.
Does it apply to children?
The 0.5 guide is used for children over 5 in some guidance, but use pediatric advice.
How can I lower it?
Reduce waist fat through activity, diet quality and sleep; spot reduction does not work.
Sources
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