Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and see your WHO health-risk category by sex. A quick screen for central fat distribution.
By Jonas Lindemann · Updated · How we build our calculators
0.85
Low risk
| Category | Men |
|---|---|
| Low risk | < 0.90 |
| Moderate risk | 0.90 – 0.99 |
| High risk | > 0.99 |
Note: WHR is a screening proxy for central fat distribution. It does not diagnose any condition. Discuss results with a healthcare professional.
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Calculation Method
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is one of the oldest and simplest indicators of how fat is distributed around your body. Because fat carried around the abdomen carries more metabolic risk than fat on the hips and thighs, the WHO uses WHR as a quick screening proxy for central adiposity — the "apple vs pear" distinction.
The Formula
Both measurements use the same unit, so the ratio is unitless — it works identically whether you measure in centimetres or inches.
Worked Example
A man with a waist of 85 cm and hips of 100 cm:
- WHR = 85 / 100 = 0.85
- For men, below 0.90 is low risk → this result is Low risk.
WHO Risk Categories
| Category | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Low risk | < 0.90 | < 0.80 |
| Moderate risk | 0.90 – 0.99 | 0.80 – 0.84 |
| High risk | ≥ 1.00 | ≥ 0.85 |
How to Measure
- Waist: midway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone, at the end of a normal exhale.
- Hips: the widest part of the buttocks.
- Keep the tape horizontal and snug, and do not pull it tight enough to compress the skin.
WHR vs Other Metrics
WHR captures fat distribution, while BMI captures overall size and waist-to-height captures central fat relative to frame. WHR is especially useful for people with athletic builds whose BMI overstates their risk. For a fuller picture, look at WHR alongside waist-to-height ratio and a body-fat estimate.
Limitations
A very muscular lower body can lower WHR, and pregnancy or bloating can raise it temporarily. WHR is a screening tool, not a diagnosis — it flags when a closer look may be worthwhile.
Note: Waist-to-hip ratio is a health-screening proxy, not a medical diagnosis. Elevated readings warrant a conversation with a healthcare professional rather than self-diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
For men, below 0.90 is low risk; for women, below 0.80 is low risk. Ratios at or above 1.00 for men and 0.85 for women indicate high risk per WHO guidance.
Measure the waist midway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone after a normal exhale, and the hips at the widest part of the buttocks. Keep the tape horizontal and snug.
WHR captures where fat sits rather than overall size, so it can flag risk that BMI misses, especially in muscular people. Many experts use WHR and waist-to-height alongside BMI.
A very muscular lower body can lower your ratio, and bloating or pregnancy can raise it temporarily. WHR is a screening proxy, not a diagnosis.