Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
A better predictor of metabolic risk than BMI — you only need a tape measure.
Your waist-to-height ratio is one of the simplest and most powerful predictors of cardiometabolic risk — often better than BMI, because it captures visceral fat around your organs.
Enter your values above to see your result.
Formula
Ratio = waist (cm) / height (cm) · Rule: keep waist below half your height (< 0.5).
How it is calculated
Waist-to-height reflects central (visceral) obesity — the fat that drives insulin resistance, fatty liver and heart disease.
The simple rule: keep your waist to less than half your height. A ratio of 0.5+ signals increased risk regardless of BMI.
Frequently asked questions
Why better than BMI?
BMI cannot tell muscle from fat or where fat sits. Waist-to-height captures visceral fat, what actually drives disease.
Scientific references
- Ashwell M et al. Obes Rev 2012;13:275-86
- Schneider HJ et al. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010;95:1777-85
Educational tool — does not replace medical advice. Discuss your results with your doctor.