Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a quick and widely used measure of abdominal fat distribution and associated health risks. The World Health Organization considers WHR one of the best indicators for cardiovascular disease risk, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
Simply enter your waist circumference (measured at the narrowest point), hip circumference (measured at the widest point), and select your sex. The calculator provides your WHR along with a health risk classification based on WHO thresholds.
How it works
WHR = Waist Circumference / Hip Circumference. WHO thresholds: Men — low risk < 0.90, moderate 0.90–1.00, high > 1.00. Women — low risk < 0.80, moderate 0.80–0.85, high > 0.85.
Use cases
- Assessing cardiovascular and metabolic health risk
- Tracking body fat distribution changes during fitness programs
- Complementing BMI with a measure of central obesity
- Quick health screening without specialized equipment
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate my waist-to-hip ratio?
Divide your waist circumference by your hip circumference using the same unit for both (cm or inches). For example, a 80 cm waist and 100 cm hips give a WHR of 0.80. Measure the waist at its narrowest point and the hips at their widest point.
What is a good waist-to-hip ratio?
According to WHO thresholds, a low-risk WHR is below 0.90 for men and below 0.80 for women. Values of 0.90–1.00 for men and 0.80–0.85 for women indicate moderate risk, while ratios above 1.00 (men) or 0.85 (women) indicate high risk for cardiovascular and metabolic conditions.
Where exactly should I measure my waist and hips?
Measure the waist at its narrowest point, usually just above the navel, with the tape parallel to the floor and after a normal exhale. Measure the hips at the widest point of the buttocks. Keep the tape snug but not compressing the skin for both measurements.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?
WHR and BMI measure different things: BMI relates weight to height, while WHR captures where fat is stored. Because abdominal (central) fat is more strongly linked to cardiovascular and metabolic risk, the WHO considers WHR one of the best simple indicators of that risk. Using both together gives a more complete picture than either alone.
What does a high waist-to-hip ratio mean?
A WHR above 1.00 for men or above 0.85 for women indicates a higher concentration of abdominal fat, which is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic conditions. It is a screening measure, not a diagnosis — discuss elevated results with a qualified healthcare professional.