Waist to Height Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-height ratio, a simple health indicator.
Waist against height
The waist-to-height ratio compares your waist measurement to your height, a simple indicator that some research suggests tracks health risk well, with a common rule of thumb that your waist should be less than half your height. This calculates the ratio from the two measurements.
Enter your waist and height to see the ratio.
Simple, and sometimes more telling than BMI
This ratio has drawn interest because it factors in where fat is carried, specifically around the middle, which BMI ignores — and some studies find it a better simple predictor of certain risks than BMI, while being just as easy to measure. The keep-your-waist-under-half-your-height guideline is memorable and needs no chart. Still, it is a single screening indicator, not a diagnosis, and accurate measurement matters. It is one useful signal among several. This is general information, not medical advice; what your ratio means for your health is best interpreted by a qualified professional who can weigh it alongside the rest of your picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is a common waist-to-height guideline?
Keeping your waist measurement less than half your height — a memorable rule of thumb that needs no chart.
Is it better than BMI?
Some research finds it a better simple predictor of certain risks, since it reflects central fat that BMI ignores, though it is still one screening signal among several.
Is this medical advice?
No — it is general information. What your ratio means is best interpreted by a qualified professional alongside your wider picture.