What is the waist-to-height ratio?
WtHR = Waist circumference ÷ Height
The simple rule: keep your waist to less than half your height. A ratio of 0.5 or more signals extra fat around the middle, which is linked to higher risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, even when BMI looks normal.
| WtHR | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Below 0.4 | Take care (possibly underweight) |
| 0.4 – 0.49 | Healthy |
| 0.5 – 0.59 | Increased risk |
| 0.6 and above | High risk |
How to measure your waist
Stand straight, breathe out normally and measure halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone, keeping the tape level and snug but not tight.
Is WtHR better than BMI?
For predicting heart and metabolic risk, research shows waist-to-height ratio is often a better guide than BMI, because it reflects belly fat directly. Using both gives the fullest picture.