Fitness estimate, not a diagnosis
Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
Waist-to-height ratio is a simple, research-backed marker of central body fat, often more useful than BMI. Keeping your waist under half your height is a sensible general target for most adults.
How to use this result
Treat the result as a general estimate, not a diagnosis or a personalised prescription. Its accuracy depends on the inputs and assumptions used by the tool. A trend over time is more useful than treating one number as a verdict.
BMI ignores where fat sits. Waist-to-height ratio does not. Measure your waist at the belly button, enter it with your height, and get a clear reading you can actually move with training and habits.
How the estimate works
- Ratio = waist ÷ height.
- Under 0.5 is the general healthy zone for most adults.
- 0.5–0.6 suggests increased risk; above 0.6 suggests high risk, worth acting on.
Method and evidence
Waist-to-height ratio divides waist circumference by height using the same unit. The result is a screening measure of central adiposity, not a diagnosis.
- Measurement technique matters; repeat under similar conditions and use the trend rather than one reading.
- This does not replace assessment of blood pressure, blood tests, symptoms or other clinical risk factors.
Method updated: 2026-08-17
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this better than BMI?+
For Many people it is a more useful single number because it reflects central fat, which matters most for health.
Where do I measure?+
Around the belly button, relaxed, at the end of a normal breath out. Same spot each time for tracking.
Want to turn this estimate into a practical plan?
Share your result and main goal. We can explain a sensible next step for your current level.