Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your WHR and see where it falls on the WHO health risk scale based on your waist and hip measurements.
*Estimates only. Not medical advice — consult a doctor for a full cardiovascular and metabolic risk assessment.
Want a fuller picture with your daily calorie needs?
TDEE Calculator📏 What Your Body Shape Tells You
WHR captures a risk signal that weight alone misses — here's the science and how to use it.
How it Works
Simply divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. The result is compared against WHO risk thresholds that differ for men and women to categorize your body fat distribution pattern.
The Formula
WHR = Waist Circumference ÷ Hip Circumference. Higher risk: men >0.90, women >0.85 (WHO).
Pro Tip
Measure at the same time of day, ideally in the morning before eating, and track your WHR monthly rather than daily — small day-to-day fluctuations from bloating or posture aren't meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is waist-to-hip ratio? +
Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is your waist circumference divided by your hip circumference. It's used as an indicator of body fat distribution — specifically how much fat is stored around the abdomen versus the hips — which correlates with cardiovascular and metabolic risk.
How do I measure my waist and hips correctly? +
Measure your waist at the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button, after exhaling normally. Measure hips at the widest point around your buttocks. Use a flexible tape measure, keep it snug but not compressing the skin, and measure standing up.
What WHR is considered healthy? +
Per World Health Organization guidance, a WHR above 0.90 for men or above 0.85 for women indicates substantially increased risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic conditions. Lower ratios generally indicate a healthier fat distribution pattern (more "pear-shaped" than "apple-shaped").
Why does WHR matter more than just weight or BMI? +
Two people can have the same BMI but very different health risks depending on where their fat is stored. Abdominal (visceral) fat is more metabolically active and linked to higher risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease than fat stored in the hips and thighs, so WHR adds information BMI alone can't capture.
Is WHR different for men and women? +
Yes. Because of natural differences in body fat distribution, WHO uses separate risk thresholds: 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women. Women naturally tend to store more fat in the hip and thigh region, which is considered lower risk than abdominal fat storage.
Can I improve my waist-to-hip ratio? +
Reducing abdominal fat through a combination of a calorie-appropriate diet, regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, adequate sleep, and stress management can improve WHR over time. Spot reduction of fat from one area alone isn't possible, but overall fat loss tends to reduce waist circumference proportionally more than hip circumference for many people.