Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio to assess cardiovascular and metabolic health risk. Includes WHO health risk classification.
Waist-to-Hip Ratio
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WHO health risk thresholds
What is Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator?
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a measurement that compares the circumference of your waist to that of your hips. It is used by the World Health Organization as an indicator of cardiovascular disease risk and abdominal obesity. Unlike BMI, WHR reflects fat distribution rather than total body mass.
How to use
- 1 Select your biological sex, as risk thresholds differ between males and females.
- 2 Choose your preferred unit of measurement — centimetres or inches.
- 3 Measure your waist at its narrowest point, typically just above the belly button.
- 4 Measure your hips at their widest point, around the buttocks.
- 5 Enter both values and read your ratio along with the WHO risk classification.
Formula
Example calculation
A woman with a waist of 75 cm and hips of 95 cm has a WHR of 0.79 (75 / 95). According to WHO guidelines, a ratio at or below 0.80 for females is considered low risk. A ratio above 0.85 indicates high cardiovascular risk.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy WHR for men?
For men, a WHR of 0.95 or below is considered low risk. Between 0.96 and 1.0 is moderate risk, and above 1.0 is high risk according to WHO guidelines.
What is a healthy WHR for women?
For women, a WHR of 0.80 or below is low risk. Between 0.81 and 0.85 is moderate risk, and above 0.85 is considered high risk by WHO standards.
Is WHR better than BMI?
WHR can be a better predictor of cardiovascular risk because it measures fat distribution. Central (abdominal) fat is more metabolically active and carries higher health risks than fat stored elsewhere.
Where exactly should I measure my waist?
Measure your waist at its natural narrowest point, which is usually about an inch above your belly button. Stand relaxed, exhale normally, then take the measurement.
Can WHR change with exercise?
Yes. Cardiovascular exercise and strength training can reduce waist circumference over time by decreasing visceral fat. This improves your WHR even if your overall weight does not change significantly.