Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator

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

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.