How to Measure Your Waist Correctly

There are several accepted waist-measurement protocols. The World Health Organization uses the midpoint between the lower edge of your last palpable rib and the top of your hip bone; CDC describes a simpler position just above the hip bones. Wellness Project follows the WHO midpoint method so your measurements use the same landmark each time.

Not necessarily. Different protocols use different landmarks, and the belly button can sit at a different level from person to person. Wellness Project uses the WHO midpoint between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone.

Flat against skin without compressing it.

Read at the end of a normal breath out.

Measure on bare skin or very light clothing.

For trend tracking, use the same method and similar conditions each time. Food, clothing, posture, breathing, and tape placement can all affect the reading, so a consistent routine matters more than chasing day-to-day changes.