®Measure yourself
Calculate your ratio
Enter your height and waist measurement in centimetres. You’ll find how to measure your waist below.
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Waist-to-height ratio
Your previous results (on this device)
Your results are stored only on this device; they are not sent anywhere.
How to measure your waist
- Find the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hip bone.
- Wrap the tape measure around your waist exactly midway between these two points; for most people this is just above the belly button.
- Breathe out naturally and take the reading at that moment.
Why does it matter?
- Body mass index shows excess weight, but not where the fat is stored.
- Waist-to-height ratio is a practical estimate of fat around the middle.
- People from some ethnic backgrounds are more prone to storing fat around the middle; their risk of weight-related conditions rises at a lower BMI.
Frequently asked questions
Who is it for?
NICE recommends this ratio for adults with a body mass index (BMI) under 35. The same cut-offs can be used for men and women and for all ethnic backgrounds. The same cut-offs also apply to children and young people aged 5 and over.
My BMI is normal; should I still measure?
Yes. BMI shows excess weight but not where the fat is stored. Waist-to-height ratio is a practical estimate of fat around the middle. People from some ethnic backgrounds are more prone to storing fat around the middle, and their risk of weight-related conditions rises at a lower BMI.
My ratio is above 0.5; what should I do?
This is not a diagnosis, but it does show that your health risk is increased. The aim is to keep your waist to less than half your height. You can talk to a doctor or dietitian about your activity and eating habits and have values such as your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol checked.
To move more, see the How much activity is enough? and activity snacks pages.
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