Waist-to-height ratio calculator
Your waist divided by your height, with the common rule of thumb.
Enter your values and press Calculate. Your inputs stay in the address, so you can switch language or share the link.
Formula
ratio = waist ÷ height
How it works
A waist smaller than half your height (ratio below 0.5) is a widely used rule of thumb; a ratio of 0.5 or more suggests extra fat around the middle.
Worked example
The same calculation with the default values:
- Waist (measured at the navel) 85 cm
- Height 175 cm
- ratio = 85 ÷ 175 = 0.485714
- half of your height = 175 ÷ 2 = 87.5 cm
Result: Waist-to-height ratio: 0.48571429 · Rule of thumb: Below 0.5 — within the usual guidance
A screening measure, not a diagnosis. Speak to a health professional about your health.
Common mistakes
- Measuring the waist at the narrowest point or at the hip bones instead of at navel level (roughly midway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone), which gives an inconsistent reading.
- Measuring over thick clothing or after exhaling forcefully, both of which distort the result.
- Using this ratio as a standalone diagnosis rather than one screening indicator among several a healthcare provider would consider.
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