Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio to assess health risk related to body fat distribution.
What is Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR)?
Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) is calculated by dividing your waist circumference by your hip circumference. It measures body fat distribution — specifically whether you carry more fat around your midsection (apple shape) or hips (pear shape).
WHR is considered a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than BMI alone, because abdominal fat (visceral fat) is more metabolically active and more strongly associated with heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
WHR Health Risk Categories
Men: Low risk: below 0.90. Moderate risk: 0.90–0.99. High risk: 1.00 or above.
Women: Low risk: below 0.80. Moderate risk: 0.80–0.85. High risk: above 0.85.
The World Health Organization defines abdominal obesity as WHR above 0.90 for men and above 0.85 for women. These thresholds are associated with significantly increased risk of metabolic complications.
How to Measure Correctly
Waist: Measure at the narrowest point between your ribs and hip bones (usually at or just above the navel). Stand relaxed, do not suck in your stomach. Hips: Measure at the widest point of your buttocks. Use a flexible tape measure, keep it level and snug but not tight. Measure over bare skin or thin clothing for accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WHR better than BMI?
WHR and BMI measure different things. BMI measures overall body mass relative to height. WHR measures fat distribution. A person can have a normal BMI but high WHR (thin but carrying visceral fat) or high BMI but healthy WHR (muscular build). Using both together gives a more complete picture.
What is a healthy waist circumference?
Independent of WHR, waist circumference alone is a health indicator. Men: below 94 cm (37 in) is low risk, above 102 cm (40 in) is high risk. Women: below 80 cm (31.5 in) is low risk, above 88 cm (34.5 in) is high risk.
Can I change my WHR?
Yes. Reducing abdominal fat through a caloric deficit, regular exercise (especially cardio + strength training), stress management, and adequate sleep can lower WHR. You cannot spot-reduce fat, but overall fat loss tends to reduce visceral fat disproportionately.