You don’t need to input your waist size to calculate your BMI and your result cannot tell you where your weight is distributed. However, waist size is a useful additional measurement to make sure you’re not carrying too much fat around your stomach. Excess stomach fat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Check your waist size easily with the following steps: Starting about a finger’s breadth above your belly button, wrap a tape measure around your torso. Inhale, then slowly exhale out. As you get to the end of your exhale, note your measurement. It’s assumed that you are overweight, no matter what BMI result you get, if your waistline is: ≥ 37 inches (94cm) for men. ≥ 31.5 inches (80cm) for women. You’re considered high-risk and are strongly encouraged to reach out to your GP for action steps if your waistline is: ≥ 40 inches (102cm) for men. ≥ 34 inches (88cm) for women. Whether you’re normal weight or overweight, you can check out our recommendations for keeping up a healthier lifestyle