Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator

The Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) Calculator is a simple yet powerful tool for assessing health risks associated with body fat distribution. Unlike BMI, which doesn’t account for fat distribution, WHtR specifically focuses on central (abdominal) obesity, which is strongly linked to various health risks.

Why Use This Calculator?

• More accurate than BMI for predicting health risks
• Takes into account body fat distribution
• Simple to measure and calculate
• Applicable across different age groups and ethnicities
• Provides clear health risk categories

How to Use It

1. Measure your waist circumference at the narrowest point (usually just above your belly button)
2. Measure your height
3. Enter both measurements in the calculator
4. Get your WHtR and health risk assessment

Understanding Your Results

The WHtR categories and their interpretations:

• Less than 0.4: Underweight
• 0.4 to 0.49: Healthy
• 0.5 to 0.57: Overweight
• Above 0.57: Obese

Tips for Accurate Measurement

• Measure your waist while standing
• Take the measurement at the end of a normal exhale
• Keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor
• Don’t pull the tape too tight
• Measure directly against the skin

Health Implications

A higher WHtR indicates increased risk for:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure
• Metabolic syndrome

Advantages Over BMI

• Considers body shape and fat distribution
• More accurate across different ethnic groups
• Better predictor of health risks
• Simpler “Keep your waist circumference less than half your height” message

Technical Notes

• The calculator uses the formula: WHtR = Waist Circumference ÷ Height
• Measurements can be entered in either metric or imperial units
• Results are rounded to two decimal places for clarity