How this waist-to-hip ratio calculator works
Your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is one of the simplest ways to describe where your body stores fat. It is calculated by dividing your waist circumference by your hip circumference. A higher ratio means relatively more fat is carried around the middle (an "apple" shape), while a lower ratio means relatively more is carried around the hips and thighs (a "pear" shape).
Because WHR is a ratio, the measurement units cancel out — you will get exactly the same number whether you measure in centimetres or inches, as long as you use the same unit for both. This calculator then compares your ratio to WHO-style cutoffs, which differ for men and women, and labels the result low, moderate or high.
Reference note: enter your waist and hip measurements in the same unit. The calculator guards against a hip value of zero or negative numbers, since those cannot produce a valid ratio. Results are rounded to two decimal places.
Frequently asked questions
- What is waist-to-hip ratio?
- Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is your waist circumference divided by your hip circumference. Because the ratio cancels out units, it is the same in centimetres or inches. It is a simple indicator of how body fat is distributed — more around the waist (apple shape) or more around the hips (pear shape).
- How do I measure my waist and hips?
- Use a flexible tape measure kept level with the floor. Measure your waist at the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button, after breathing out normally. Measure your hips at the widest part of your buttocks. Keep the tape snug but not compressing the skin, and use the same units for both.
- What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
- Using WHO-style cutoffs, men are low risk below 0.90, moderate from 0.90 to 0.99, and high risk at 1.0 or above. Women are low risk below 0.80, moderate from 0.80 to 0.84, and high risk at 0.85 or above. Lower ratios generally indicate less fat carried around the waist.
- How does WHR compare to BMI?
- BMI compares your weight to your height and does not show where fat is stored. WHR instead describes fat distribution — central (around the waist) versus peripheral (around the hips). The two answer different questions, and many people look at both together for a fuller picture.
- Why does fat distribution matter?
- A higher proportion of fat stored around the waist has been linked with different metabolic patterns than fat stored around the hips. That is why a ratio comparing the two is widely used in health and fitness contexts as a quick, equipment-light screening figure alongside other measurements.
- Should I see a doctor about my waist-to-hip ratio?
- This calculator is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. WHR is just one simple screening figure. If you have questions about your health, body composition or risk, speak with a qualified healthcare professional who can consider your full history.