How is the waist-to-height ratio calculated?

WHtR = waist circumference ÷ height, with both measured in the same unit, so the result is a unitless number. The well-known rule is to keep your waist below half your height (WHtR under 0.5). Common adult bands are: under 0.40 take care, 0.40–0.49 healthy, 0.50–0.59 increased risk, 0.60 and over high risk.

Is WHtR more accurate than BMI?

WHtR captures central (abdominal) fat that BMI can miss, and many researchers find it a useful complementary screen. However, it is still a screening tool, not a diagnosis, and is not validated for children or during pregnancy. Combine it with other measures and professional advice.

Does my measurement leave my device?

No. Your waist and height are used only inside your browser to compute the ratio. Nothing is stored, logged or transmitted.

Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator

Waist-to-height ratio calculator

The waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) is one of the simplest health screens there is. The rule of thumb: keep your waist to less than half your height.

WHtR = waist ÷ height (in the same unit)

Because both measurements use the same unit, the result is a plain number. A WHtR below 0.5 falls in the healthy band; higher values indicate more central (abdominal) fat and increased risk.

Enter your waist and height in centimetres or inches. Measure the waist at the midpoint between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone for a consistent reading. The tool shows your ratio, your risk band and your healthy waist ceiling.

WHtR is a screening guide, not a diagnosis, and is not validated for children or during pregnancy. All maths runs locally in your browser — nothing is uploaded.