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Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
A simple second check alongside BMI: your waist should be less than half your height.
Waist-to-height ratio chart
| Ratio | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Under 0.40 | May be underweight |
| 0.40 – 0.49 | Healthy |
| 0.50 – 0.59 | Increased risk |
| 0.60 and over | High risk |
How to measure your waist
Stand relaxed and breathe out normally. Wrap a tape measure around your bare waist halfway between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hip bones, roughly at the navel. Keep the tape level and snug without pressing into the skin.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy waist-to-height ratio for women?
A ratio between 0.4 and 0.49 is generally considered healthy. From 0.5 to 0.59 suggests increased health risk, and 0.6 or more suggests high risk. Under 0.4 may indicate being underweight.
How do I measure my waist correctly?
Stand relaxed, breathe out normally and place a tape measure around your bare waist midway between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hip bones, roughly level with your navel. Keep the tape snug but not squeezing.
Is waist-to-height ratio better than BMI?
Research suggests it predicts cardiometabolic risk at least as well as BMI, and it works for all heights and ethnicities. It is best used alongside BMI.