Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR)
Divide waist by hip to judge fat distribution (apple/pear) and cardiovascular risk
Measure at navel level
Measure at the widest point
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StartAbout Waist-to-Hip Ratio
Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) = waist Γ· hip. It reflects fat distribution and central obesity, an important marker of cardiovascular and metabolic risk.
- π Apple shapeοΌApple shape: fat sits around the abdomen, with higher visceral fat and metabolic risk.
- π Pear shapeοΌPear shape: fat sits around the hips and thighs, with relatively lower health risk.
- Measure the waist at its narrowest point around the navel, and the hips at the widest point; stand naturally, exhale, and keep the tape snug but not tight.
- WHO recommends WHR < 0.9 for men and < 0.85 for women.
About this tool
What is Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator?
Your waist circumference divided by your hip circumference.
What is it for?
Identifies fat distribution (apple vs pear) and the cardiovascular risk linked to abdominal obesity.
How to read your result
Men <0.9 and women <0.85 are low risk; the higher the value, the greater the visceral-fat-related risk.
Classification & Reference
| Risk | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Low | <0.90 | <0.80 |
| Moderate | 0.90β1.0 | 0.80β0.85 |
| High | β₯1.0 | β₯0.85 |
Formula
WHR = waist Γ· hipHow to measure waist-to-hip ratio
- Measure your waist at the narrowest point (or at the navel), after breathing out, without pulling in.
- Measure your hips at the widest point around the buttocks.
- Divide waist by hip. Men should aim below 0.90 and women below 0.85.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
By WHO cut-offs, men should stay below 0.90 and women below 0.85. Higher ratios mean more abdominal fat and greater cardiovascular and metabolic risk.
What do apple and pear body shapes mean?
An 'apple' shape carries fat around the waist (higher WHR) and carries more health risk; a 'pear' shape carries fat around the hips and thighs (lower WHR), which is generally lower risk.
How do I measure waist and hip for WHR?
Measure the waist at its narrowest (or at the navel) and the hips at the widest point around the buttocks, with the tape level and snug. Then divide waist by hip.
Is WHR or WHtR better?
Both assess fat distribution. WHtR (waist vs height) needs only one circumference and has a simple universal 0.5 cut-off; WHR (waist vs hip) captures hip size too. Using either alongside BMI is better than BMI alone.
What WHR indicates high risk?
A ratio of 1.0 or above in men, or 0.85 or above in women, is the WHO threshold for substantially increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular disease.