safefood
  • Text Size
  • A
  • A
  • A
  • Colour
  • C
  • C
  • C
  • C
Measure Up

How do you measure up?

For the most accurate result measure halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your hipbone, roughly in line with your belly button.

Enter your waist measurement

You must be over 18 to use this calculator

 
 
FIND OUT MORE
More detailed instructions

Measuring your waist

  • Wrap the measuring tape around your bare skin or a light t-shirt
  • Make sure the tape is snug, but does not push in the skin. Make sure also the tape is not twisted at the back and is straight across the back.
  • Stand with your feet together. If someone is measuring your waist for you leave your arms relaxed, down by your side.
  • Relax, exhale and measure your waist Although it might be tempting, do not 'suck in your stomach' and don't hold your breath when measuring
  • Irrespective of height, a waist measurement of greater than 37 inches (94cm) for men or 32 inches (80cm) for women is an indicator of increased health risk.

Information on Measuring up

The Stop the Spread campaign is designed to make you think about your own weight.

Waist sizes above 32 inches for women and 37 inches for men are a good indication that you may be carrying excess weight and this is directly linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases.

We cannot give individual tailored clinical advice as every individual situation is different.

If your waist is over 32 or 37 inches you need to take into account other factors that may affect your health such as smoking, physical inactivity, eating habits, blood pressure and blood cholesterol, lack of sleep and many more.

If you want to get tailored advice on your own situation, speak to your health professional.
Back to Top

Stories

Many people feel the 32 or 37 inch limits don't apply to them, because of the particular body type or circumstances. For some, it's true. For most, it's not...

FIND OUT MORE
Back to Top

Weighing up the facts

See how our weight has changed over the last 20 years.

FIND OUT MORE
Back to Top

Well done, you’ve taken the first step by measuring your waist. You are ready! If you haven’t measured your waist yet, click here

Now that you know your waist measurement, set yourself a healthy goal! As a guideline, you can lose 1-2 around your middle in 6-8 weeks.

For information, support and advice on how to achieve your goal follow us on facebook, explore this website or go to our free online weight-loss programme, Weigh2Live.

Like us on Facebook for tips and support on losing weight.
FIND OUT MORE

Information on Measuring up

The Stop the Spread campaign is designed to make you think about your own weight.

Waist sizes above 32 inches for women and 37 inches for men are a good indication that you may be carrying excess weight and this is directly linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases.

We cannot give individual tailored clinical advice as every individual situation is different.

If your waist is over 32 or 37 inches you need to take into account other factors that may affect your health such as smoking, physical inactivity, eating habits, blood pressure and blood cholesterol, lack of sleep and many more.

If you want to get tailored advice on your own situation, speak to your health professional.

Be safe be healthy be well