Waist-to-height ratio calculator
Divide your waist by your height, in the same unit. A ratio under 0.5 is the commonly cited cutoff for lower health risk in adults. Enter inches or centimeters. The page starts at a waist of 32 in (81.3 cm) and a height of 5 ft 8 in (172.7 cm).
How it works
The ratio is waist divided by height, with both in the same unit. A ratio of 0.5 means the waist is half of the height. The page reads the ratio to two decimals against the commonly cited bands in the table below. The last result line shows the waist that would give 0.5 at the height entered.
Waist-to-height ratio example
A waist of 32 in (81.3 cm) over a height of 5 ft 8 in (172.7 cm) gives 32 รท 68 = 0.47. That falls in the 0.40 to 0.49 band. At that height a waist of 34 in (86.4 cm) would give 0.5.
Commonly cited waist-to-height bands for adults.
| Ratio | Band |
|---|---|
| Under 0.40 | Below the usual lower risk band |
| 0.40 to 0.49 | Lower risk |
| 0.50 to 0.59 | Raised risk |
| 0.60 and above | High risk |
Common questions
Where do I measure my waist?
Halfway between the bottom rib and the top of the hip bone, after a normal breath out.
Does it work for children?
The bands are for adults. Use a growth chart for children.
How is it different from BMI?
BMI ignores where fat sits. This ratio reflects belly fat, which is linked to risk.
Is a result over 0.5 a diagnosis?
No. It is a screening number. A doctor gives the full picture.