Question 1

What is a healthy waist-to-height ratio?

Accepted Answer

Under 0.5 for most adults — your waist should measure less than half your height. From about 0.5 to 0.6 is an increased-risk zone, and 0.6 or above is high risk. The same 0.5 boundary applies to men and women.

Question 2

Is waist-to-height ratio better than BMI?

Accepted Answer

It measures something different. BMI tracks total weight relative to height; WHtR tracks central fat, which is more closely tied to heart and metabolic risk. Many researchers consider WHtR a better single screen, and it's just as easy to calculate.

Question 3

Where do I measure my waist?

Accepted Answer

At the level of your navel, with the tape horizontal and snug but not digging in. Measure on bare skin after a normal breath out, and take two readings to average out tape slack.

Question 4

Does waist-to-height ratio work for all ages?

Accepted Answer

The 0.5 boundary is used for adults and, in many guidelines, for children over about age 6 too. It's intended as a general screen, not a diagnosis — pair it with your clinician's advice.

Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator — Keep Your Waist Under Half Your Height (2026)