Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) Calculator
Two tape measurements tell you where your body stores fat — and the WHO risk band that goes with it.
How to calculate waist-to-hip ratio
WHR = waist circumference ÷ hip circumference. Measure the waist at the midpoint between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone (WHO protocol), and the hips at the widest point of the buttocks, both with the tape horizontal and after a normal breath out. Example: 80 cm ÷ 100 cm = 0.80.
Normal and ideal waist-to-hip ratio (chart)
WHO thresholds for substantially increased risk of metabolic complications: WHR ≥ 0.90 in men and ≥ 0.85 in women. Below those values is considered normal; there is no single “ideal” number, though lower ratios within the normal band go with lower risk. Waist circumference alone is also used: risk rises above 94 cm (men) and 80 cm (women), and substantially above 102 cm and 88 cm.
Waist-to-height ratio
A simpler alternative gaining ground in guidelines: keep your waist under half your height (ratio below 0.5). It works across sexes and ethnic groups and needs only one measurement. The calculator shows it alongside WHR when you enter height.
What WHR says about health risk
Fat stored around the abdomen (an “apple” shape) is more strongly linked to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease than fat on the hips and thighs, independent of BMI. That is why WHR and waist size add information BMI cannot give. Re-measure monthly; a shrinking waist at stable weight usually means fat loss with muscle retained.
Sources
- WHO, Waist circumference and waist–hip ratio: report of a WHO expert consultation (2011) — https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241501491
- WHO, Obesity and overweight — https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight
This calculator is educational and not medical advice. If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or are under 18, ask a clinician before changing your diet.
What the result tells you
Your waist-to-hip ratio — a quick screen for how fat is distributed. More around the waist carries more health risk.
How to use it
- Measure your waist at its narrowest point and hips at the widest, relaxed.
- Use a snug, level tape and don't suck in.
- Track it over months alongside your waist measurement.
Recommendations
- WHR reflects fat distribution, not total body fat.
- A rising waist over time is worth acting on, even at a stable weight.
- Pair it with blood pressure and blood-sugar checks for a fuller picture.
Health & wellbeing
This is a screening ratio, not a diagnosis. If yours falls in a higher-risk band, raise it with a healthcare professional rather than worrying alone.
Troubleshooting
Ratio looks off? Re-measure at the correct points — waist narrowest, hips widest — with a level tape.
How it’s calculated
This divides your waist measurement by your hip measurement and reads it against WHO risk thresholds.
WHR = waist ÷ hip. Higher risk above 0.90 (men) or 0.85 (women); the calculator also flags a moderate band.
Source: World Health Organization, Waist circumference and waist–hip ratio report, 2008.
Common questions
What is a good waist-to-hip ratio for a woman?
Below 0.85 by WHO criteria; many healthy women sit around 0.7–0.8.
And for a man?
Below 0.90.
Is WHR better than BMI?
They answer different questions: BMI is overall size, WHR is fat distribution. Use both.