What is waist-to-hip ratio?

Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is your waist circumference divided by your hip circumference. It describes where fat is distributed on the body — often summarized as "apple" (waist-dominant) versus "pear" (hip-dominant) shape — which BMI cannot capture at all.

What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?

The World Health Organization uses 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women as the threshold above which health risk is considered substantially increased. Below those figures is generally considered lower risk.

How do I measure my hips for this calculator?

Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks, standing relaxed with the tape level and snug but not compressing the skin.

Why does WHR use different thresholds for men and women?

Men and women carry fat differently on average, so the same ratio does not carry the same health implication for both. The WHO thresholds reflect that difference, the same way BMI itself does not.

Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) compares your waist and hip measurements to describe where fat is carried on your body — a dimension of shape that BMI, which uses only height and weight, cannot see at all.

Calculate your WHR

Enter metric measurements. Runs entirely in your browser.

The WHR formula

WHR = waist circumference ÷ hip circumference

WHO risk bands

WHR risk bands by sex
Sex	WHR	Band
Male	0.00–0.90	Lower risk
Male	0.90–1.00	Moderate risk
Male	1.00+	Higher risk
Female	0.00–0.80	Lower risk
Female	0.80–0.85	Moderate risk
Female	0.85+	Higher risk

How to use WHR

WHR is a screening measure of fat distribution, not a diagnosis. Measurement technique matters — measure at the same spot each time, standing relaxed, without pulling the tape tight. Treat the result as a general wellness reference and discuss any health concern with a healthcare provider.

Common questions

What is waist-to-hip ratio?: Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is your waist circumference divided by your hip circumference. It describes where fat is distributed on the body — often summarized as "apple" (waist-dominant) versus "pear" (hip-dominant) shape — which BMI cannot capture at all.
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?: The World Health Organization uses 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women as the threshold above which health risk is considered substantially increased. Below those figures is generally considered lower risk.
How do I measure my hips for this calculator?: Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks, standing relaxed with the tape level and snug but not compressing the skin.
Why does WHR use different thresholds for men and women?: Men and women carry fat differently on average, so the same ratio does not carry the same health implication for both. The WHO thresholds reflect that difference, the same way BMI itself does not.