Waist to Height Ratio Calculator
Calculate waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and compare your result to central-fat risk screening bands.
Common target zone for lower central-fat risk in adult screening models.
| Range | Category |
|---|---|
| 0-0.4 | Below Range |
| 0.4-0.5 | Healthy Range |
| 0.5-0.6 | Elevated |
| 0.6+ | High |
Waist-to-Height Ratio Interpretation
Adult screening uses waist-to-height ratio as a quick marker of central-fat distribution risk.
| RANGE | CATEGORY |
|---|---|
| 0-0.40 | Below Range Below common adult screening range. Recheck measurements and broader nutrition context. |
| 0.40-0.50 | Healthy Range Common target zone for lower central-fat risk in adult screening models. |
| 0.50-0.60 | Elevated Central-fat risk is often higher above 0.50. Track waist trend and lifestyle factors. |
| 0.60+ | High High-risk screening band for abdominal adiposity. Consider full cardiometabolic assessment. |
What This Waist to Height Ratio Calculator Measures
Waist-to-height ratio is waist circumference divided by height. It is a fast screening metric for central fat distribution, often summarized as: keep waist under half your height.
How To Measure for Better Consistency
- Measure waist at the same site each time, commonly around navel level.
- Keep tape horizontal and snug without compressing skin.
- Use normal exhale posture and avoid flexing or bracing.
- Take 2 to 3 readings and use the average.
How To Use WHtR in Practice
Use WHtR as a trend and screening marker, not a diagnosis. Track it alongside body weight, waist trend, and cardiometabolic markers over time.
For hip-adjusted central-fat context, run the Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator. For broad weight-status screening, use the BMI Calculator. For roundness modeling from waist and height, use the BRI Calculator.
References
- NICE obesity guidance using waist-based risk stratification:Obesity: identification, assessment and management
- Boundary value review for waist-to-height ratio (PubMed):Waist-to-height ratio as an indicator of cardiometabolic risk
- Meta-analysis of anthropometric indices for cardiometabolic risk prediction (PubMed):General and abdominal adiposity and risk outcomes
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