Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-height ratio.
Enter values to determine your WHtR.
The Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) is a simple measurement used to assess body fat distribution and the potential risk for weight-related health problems. It's gained popularity as a valuable alternative or complement to the more traditional Body Mass Index (BMI).
The WHtR Formula
The calculation is as simple as its name suggests:
WHtR = Waist Circumference / Height
For the formula to work correctly, both measurements must be in the same units (e.g., both in inches or both in centimeters).
Why WHtR is a Useful Health Indicator
The core message of the Waist-to-Height Ratio is straightforward: **"Keep your waist circumference to less than half your height."**
This focus on waist circumference is what makes WHtR so powerful. A larger waist size is a strong indicator of excess abdominal fat (visceral fat), which is stored around your internal organs. This type of fat is metabolically more dangerous than fat stored elsewhere on the body and is strongly linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
Because BMI does not account for where fat is stored, a person can have a "normal" BMI but still have an unhealthy amount of abdominal fat. WHtR helps to capture this specific risk.
Interpreting Your WHtR
The general guidelines for interpreting the ratio are the same for men and women:
- WHtR < 0.4: May indicate being underweight.
- WHtR 0.4 - 0.49: Healthy weight.
- WHtR 0.5 - 0.59: Overweight.
- WHtR ≥ 0.6: Highly overweight or obese.
Disclaimer: This calculator is an educational tool and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For a complete health assessment, consult with a qualified healthcare provider.
Enter values to see the results.
The Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) is a simple measurement used to assess body fat distribution and the potential risk for weight-related health problems. It's gained popularity as a valuable alternative or complement to the more traditional Body Mass Index (BMI).
The WHtR Formula
The calculation is as simple as its name suggests:
WHtR = Waist Circumference / Height
For the formula to work correctly, both measurements must be in the same units (e.g., both in inches or both in centimeters).
Why WHtR is a Useful Health Indicator
The core message of the Waist-to-Height Ratio is straightforward: **"Keep your waist circumference to less than half your height."**
This focus on waist circumference is what makes WHtR so powerful. A larger waist size is a strong indicator of excess abdominal fat (visceral fat), which is stored around your internal organs. This type of fat is metabolically more dangerous than fat stored elsewhere on the body and is strongly linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
Because BMI does not account for where fat is stored, a person can have a "normal" BMI but still have an unhealthy amount of abdominal fat. WHtR helps to capture this specific risk.
Interpreting Your WHtR
The general guidelines for interpreting the ratio are the same for men and women:
- WHtR < 0.4: May indicate being underweight.
- WHtR 0.4 - 0.49: Healthy weight.
- WHtR 0.5 - 0.59: Overweight.
- WHtR ≥ 0.6: Highly overweight or obese.
Disclaimer: This calculator is an educational tool and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For a complete health assessment, consult with a qualified healthcare provider.