Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
The Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) is a simple yet powerful screening tool that measures central adiposity — the accumulation of fat around the abdomen — by dividing waist circumference by height, both measured in the same unit. Because abdominal fat is more metabolically harmful than fat stored elsewhere, WHtR is considered a stronger predictor of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome than BMI alone.
A healthy WHtR is generally below 0.5, meaning your waist should be less than half your height. Values between 0.5 and 0.6 indicate overweight, while 0.6 or above signals obesity and elevated cardiometabolic risk. The ratio is sex-neutral and applies across different ethnicities, making it a versatile complement to other body composition measures.
How it works
WHtR = Waist Circumference ÷ Height (both in the same unit, e.g. cm or inches). The result is a dimensionless ratio. Healthy range: WHtR < 0.5. Overweight: 0.5 ≤ WHtR < 0.6. Obese / High risk: WHtR ≥ 0.6.
Use cases
- Screening for abdominal obesity and elevated cardiometabolic risk
- Tracking changes in central fat distribution during a diet or exercise program
- Complementing BMI assessments in clinical or wellness settings
- Comparing health risk across different body types and ethnicities
- Setting waist circumference goals relative to your own height