Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator

The waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) is your waist circumference divided by your height, measured in the same unit. Because both numbers share that unit, the result is the same whether you use inches or centimeters. It estimates central (abdominal) fat, which is a stronger marker of cardiometabolic risk than overall weight alone.

Divide your waist circumference by your height: WHtR = waist / height. For example, a 33.5 inch waist and a 69 inch height give 33.5 / 69 = 0.49. The simplest rule of thumb is to keep your waist to less than half your height, which corresponds to a ratio below 0.50.

Using the Ashwell boundary bands, a ratio from 0.40 to under 0.50 is considered healthy for most adults. Below 0.40 suggests you may be underweight, 0.50 to under 0.60 signals increased central fat, and 0.60 or higher indicates high risk. These cut-offs apply to both men and women.

Stand relaxed and measure around your bare midsection at the midpoint between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hip bones, roughly level with your navel. Keep the tape snug but not compressing the skin, and take the reading at the end of a normal breath out for a consistent result.

WHtR and BMI measure different things. BMI uses weight and height but ignores where fat sits, while WHtR targets abdominal fat directly, so it can flag risk in people with a normal BMI. Many researchers treat WHtR as a useful complement to BMI rather than a replacement. Use both for a fuller picture.

No. This calculator is for education and general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your ratio is one screening signal among many. Talk to a doctor or qualified health professional before making decisions about your health.