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The formula
ABSI = waist (m) ÷ (BMI^(2/3) × height (m)^(1/2))
Worked example for 70 kg, 175 cm, 85 cm waist:
- BMI = 70 ÷ 1.75² = 22.86
- BMI^(2/3) = 8.05
- √1.75 = 1.323
- ABSI = 0.85 ÷ (8.05 × 1.323) = 0.0798
What ABSI tells you
Most adults have an ABSI around 0.07 to 0.09.1 On its own, the number is hard to read, because it depends on age and sex. Researchers turn it into a z-score by comparing with reference tables for people of the same age and sex.1 A higher-than-average ABSI means more fat around the waist than your BMI would suggest.
| What ABSI shows | What it doesn't show |
|---|---|
| Whether your waist is larger or smaller than expected for your BMI and height | A simple cutoff: there's no single healthy value |
| Waist-related risk, separately from BMI | Your body fat percentage |
| How you compare with people of your age and sex, as a z-score | Much on its own: the raw number is hard to read |
ABSI vs. waist-to-height ratio
Both measures use your waist. Waist-to-height ratio is simpler and has an easy rule, keep it under 0.5, so it's more practical for everyday use. ABSI is mainly used in research. Waist-to-height ratio.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good ABSI?
There's no single cutoff. Lower than average for your age and sex is better. For a practical check, use the waist-to-height ratio.
Why are the numbers so small?
Because of the units and powers in the formula. Only comparisons between people matter, not the size of the number itself.
Sources
This page is for education and is not medical advice. Talk with a healthcare professional about your weight and health.
