How to Measure Your Waist Circumference

What waist circumference means for your health

Your waist circumference is the distance around your abdomen, usually measured just above your hip bones, near the level of your belly button. Carrying extra weight around your middle can increase your risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. 

Waist circumference is just one measure of health, but it can be an important part of the bigger picture. If you’re interested in taking the next step, you can explore how Felix weight loss treatment works and find out if it’s the right fit for your health goals.

How to measure waist circumference with a measuring tape, step by step:

1. Find the right spot
   Place a tape measure around your body at the top of your hip bones. This is usually right at the level of your belly button.
2. Stand naturally
   Stand tall with feet hip-width apart. 
3. Wrap the tape
   Bring the tape around your waist, making sure it’s snug but not pressing into the skin. Keep it level all the way around.
4. Read the number
   Relax and breathe out normally (don’t suck in your stomach). Look where the end of the tape meets the rest of the tape. This is your waist circumference.

How to measure waist circumference without a tape measure:

If you don’t have a soft measuring tape, try these alternatives:

• String or ribbon: Wrap it around your waist, mark the overlap, then measure with a ruler, a firm/construction tape measure or an object that you know the exact length/measurement of.
• Paper towel strip: Tear off a sheet, wrap it around your waist, then measure the strip.
• Measure app: iPhone and Android devices both have free “Measure” apps that can measure items like a string that you wrapped around your waist.  
• Printable measuring tape: Some websites let you print a paper tape measure. Be sure your printer is set to 100% scale.

Tips for getting an accurate waist circumference measurement

• Measure at the same spot each time (at the top of your hip bones, which is usually at the level of your belly button).
• Take the measurement after exhaling, not while holding your breath.
• Remove clothing so the tape sits on your skin.
• Record your measurement right away to keep track.