Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio — a quick indicator of fat distribution and health risk.
How to use the waist-to-hip ratio calculator
- Choose units and your sex.
- Measure and enter your waist and hip circumference.
- Click Calculate for your ratio and risk band.
Why fat distribution matters
Where you store fat matters as much as how much. Abdominal (apple-shaped) fat carries higher health risk than hip and thigh fat, which the ratio captures.
Why fat distribution matters for health
Where you carry fat is as important as how much. Fat stored around the abdomen (an 'apple' shape) is more strongly linked to cardiovascular and metabolic risk than fat on the hips and thighs (a 'pear' shape). Waist-to-hip ratio captures this distribution simply.
Interpreting your ratio
The WHO associates higher health risk with ratios above roughly 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women, though thresholds vary by population. Combined with waist circumference, it is a quick, equipment-free screen that often flags risk even when BMI looks normal.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
The WHO considers below 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women lower risk. Higher ratios indicate more abdominal fat and greater cardiometabolic risk.
Where do I measure waist and hips?
Measure the waist at its narrowest point (around the navel) and the hips at their widest point around the buttocks, keeping the tape level.
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
Generally below about 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women, though exact thresholds vary by population and should be interpreted alongside other measures.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?
For assessing fat-distribution risk, it adds information BMI misses, since it reflects where fat is stored. Using both gives a fuller picture.
How do I measure my waist and hips correctly?
Measure the waist at the narrowest point (or the navel) and the hips at the widest point of the buttocks, with the tape level and snug but not compressing the skin.
Related tools
Body Fat Calculator
Estimate your body-fat percentage using the U.S. Navy circumference method — just a tape measure required.
BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index and see which WHO weight category it falls into.
Ideal Weight Calculator
Estimate your ideal body weight from your height across four classic formulas.