Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Waist-to-hip ratio evaluates abdominal fat distribution—a key indicator for cardiometabolic risk. Measure your waist and hips to see where you stand.
Enter Your Measurements
Use a flexible tape measure and keep it level around the body.
Your Waist-to-Hip Ratio
WHR
0.84
Classification
Moderate risk. Monitor lifestyle factors.
Measurements (converted to cm)
Waist: 80.0 cm • Hips: 95.0 cm
How to Use This Calculator
Measure precisely
Waist: at the narrowest point or midpoint between rib and iliac crest. Hips: around the fullest part of the buttocks.
Assess your risk
Compare your WHR against recommended cutoffs. Higher ratios signal more abdominal fat and potential metabolic risk.
Monitor over time
Track WHR monthly alongside weight, waist-to-height ratio, and lifestyle changes to gauge progress.
Formula
Waist-to-Hip Ratio = Waist ÷ Hip
- Use identical units for waist and hip measurements.
- WHO thresholds: ≥0.90 (men) and ≥0.85 (women) indicate increased cardiometabolic risk.
- Combine WHR with BMI and waist-to-height ratio for a comprehensive assessment.
Example: Waist 0.82 m, hips 0.98 m → WHR = 0.82 ÷ 0.98 ≈ 0.84.
Why WHR Matters
WHR captures where body fat is stored. Excess abdominal fat strongly correlates with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome—even when BMI is “normal”. WHR is quick to measure and provides actionable insights for lifestyle changes.
Pair WHR with blood pressure, blood lipids, and activity metrics. Use repeated measurements to evaluate the impact of diet and exercise routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do clothing layers matter?
Measure over thin clothing or directly on the skin. Thick clothing can inflate the numbers and change the ratio.
How often should I measure?
Monthly measurements under similar conditions help you observe trends while allowing time for changes to occur.
Is WHR better than BMI?
WHR focuses on fat distribution, while BMI tracks overall mass. Using both together provides more context.
Can I use WHR during pregnancy?
WHR is not reliable during pregnancy due to body changes. Follow guidance from your healthcare provider instead.