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Weight Loss Tools
The Best Weight Calculator for You
Whether your weight loss goal is to shed belly fat or lower your risk of heart disease, a few at-home calculations can help keep you healthy and on track
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The Tools You Need
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To determine if your weight is “normal”
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To determine if your weight is a health risk
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To calculate your body fat percentage
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To determine how many calories you need
To determine if your weight is a health risk
The waist-to-hip ratio measures where your body stores fat. The ratio compares the circumference of your waist with that of your hips. (Related: 20 Tips for a Smaller Waistline)
How it works: You can calculate at home by measuring your waist and hip circumferences and dividing the numbers. Wrap a tape measure around the smallest section of your natural waist, usually just above the belly button, and record the number. Then measure your hips around the widest part of your bottom. Finally, divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. For example, if your waist is 30 inches and your hips are 29, the ratio is 1.03. According to the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, women with waist-to-hip ratios of more than 0.8 are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers because of their fat distribution. And men with waist-to-hip ratios of more than 1.0 are at increased health risk for the same reason.
How it can help you manage your weight: This test can help you determine if you’re an apple or a pear shape. A ratio of 0.8 or above indicates that you are an apple shape. A ratio of under 0.8 means you are a pear shape. Previous research suggested that those with central obesity (apple shape) were 3 times more likely to suffer from heart disease than those with more generally distributed fat.
How accurate is it? Current research suggests that you’re better off sticking with BMI. A new study published in the British medical journal The Lancet studied 220,000 people over almost 10 years and found that your risk for cardiovascular disease is not increased by carrying fat around your waist as opposed to on your hips and thighs. Carrying excess weight—anywhere—puts you at greater risk for heart disease, the researchers concluded.
More: Your first step toward a healthier weight is right out the front door! This mix of walking and strength training can help you slim down from head to toe
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