Health

Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and see your health risk category according to WHO guidelines. Supports centimetres and inches.

Measure at the narrowest point / navel

Measure at the widest point

Enter waist and hip measurements to calculate your WHR.

WHO Risk Thresholds

Risk LevelMen (WHR)Women (WHR)
Low≤ 0.90≤ 0.80
Moderate0.91–0.990.81–0.84
High≥ 1.00≥ 0.85

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WHR Formula & WHO Thresholds

WHR = Waist Circumference ÷ Hip Circumference

SexLow RiskModerate RiskHigh Risk
Male< 0.900.90 – 0.99≥ 1.00
Female< 0.800.80 – 0.84≥ 0.85

Why Fat Distribution Matters

Visceral fat — the fat stored around the internal organs in the abdominal cavity — is metabolically active and releases inflammatory compounds linked to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Subcutaneous fat stored on the hips and thighs (pear shape) is less metabolically active and poses lower cardiovascular risk. WHR is a simple proxy for this distinction that does not require body composition scanning.

Frequently asked questions

What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
According to the World Health Organization, a healthy WHR is below 0.90 for men and below 0.85 for women. Ratios at or above these thresholds indicate abdominal obesity, which is associated with increased cardiovascular and metabolic disease risk.
Is WHR better than BMI for assessing health risk?
WHR is often considered a stronger predictor of cardiovascular disease risk than BMI because it specifically measures the distribution of fat — central (abdominal) fat is more metabolically harmful than fat stored elsewhere. However, both metrics have limitations, and neither replaces a clinical assessment.
How do I measure my waist correctly?
Measure around your natural waistline — the narrowest point of your torso, typically just above your belly button and below your rib cage. Stand upright, breathe out naturally, and keep the tape horizontal. Do not suck in your stomach.
What is the apple vs pear body shape distinction?
People who carry most of their weight around the abdomen are described as apple-shaped (higher WHR). Those who carry weight around the hips and thighs are pear-shaped (lower WHR). Apple-shaped fat distribution is associated with higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension.
Can I reduce my waist-to-hip ratio?
Yes. Visceral (abdominal) fat responds well to regular aerobic exercise, a calorie-controlled diet, reduced alcohol intake, and stress management (which lowers cortisol, a driver of belly fat). Resistance training also improves body composition over time.

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