Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and see your health-risk category by sex, based on World Health Organization thresholds.
Waist-to-Hip Ratio
0.85
| Risk (male) | WHR |
|---|---|
| Low risk← You | ≤ 0.95 |
| Moderate risk | 0.95– 1.00 |
| High risk | > 1.00 |
Risk thresholds follow World Health Organization guidance. WHR is a screening indicator, not a diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)?
Waist-to-hip ratio is your waist circumference divided by your hip circumference. It's a simple measure of how fat is distributed — more around the waist (apple shape) carries higher health risk than more around the hips (pear shape).
How do I measure my waist and hips?
Measure your waist at the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button, after a normal exhale. Measure your hips at the widest part of your buttocks. Keep the tape level and snug without compressing the skin. Use the same units for both.
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
Using WHO thresholds: for men, 0.95 or below is low risk, 0.96–1.0 is moderate, and above 1.0 is high risk. For women, 0.80 or below is low risk, 0.81–0.85 is moderate, and above 0.85 is high risk.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?
They measure different things. BMI estimates overall weight relative to height, while WHR captures fat distribution. Research links high WHR to cardiovascular and metabolic risk independent of BMI, so the two are best used together.
How can I improve my waist-to-hip ratio?
Reducing abdominal (visceral) fat through a calorie deficit, regular aerobic exercise, strength training, and limiting refined carbs and alcohol tends to lower the waist measurement and improve the ratio over time.