Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator

Calculate your Waist to Hip Ratio (WHR) and assess health risk categories based on WHO guidelines. Supports cm/inches and provides measurement guidance.

Calculate Your Waist to Hip Ratio

Your Results

0.85

Waist to Hip Ratio

Moderate Risk

Health Assessment

Slightly elevated abdominal fat. Consider lifestyle improvements.

Recommendations

Increase cardiovascular exercise
Focus on core strengthening
Reduce processed foods
Monitor blood pressure

Waist to Hip Ratio Categories

Men

Low Risk< 0.85

Healthy body fat distribution

• Lower cardiovascular risk
• Better metabolic health

Moderate Risk0.85 - 0.90

Some abdominal fat accumulation

• Increased health risks
• Lifestyle improvements needed

High Risk> 0.90

Significant abdominal obesity

• High cardiovascular risk
• Medical consultation recommended

Women

Low Risk< 0.80

Healthy body fat distribution

• Lower cardiovascular risk
• Better metabolic health

Moderate Risk0.80 - 0.85

Some abdominal fat accumulation

• Increased health risks
• Lifestyle improvements needed

High Risk> 0.85

Significant abdominal obesity

• High cardiovascular risk
• Medical consultation recommended

How to Calculate Waist to Hip Ratio

WHR Formula

WHR = Waist Circumference ÷ Hip Circumference

Measurement Steps:

1
Measure waist circumference
At the narrowest point between ribs and hip bone
2
Measure hip circumference
At the widest part of the buttocks
3
Calculate the ratio
Divide waist measurement by hip measurement
4
Interpret results
Compare with gender-specific risk categories

Important Considerations

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates. Consult healthcare professionals for medical advice.

📏 Measurement Accuracy

Proper measurement technique is crucial

• Use a flexible measuring tape
• Measure at the correct anatomical points
• Take measurements without clothing

🏃 Body Composition

WHR reflects fat distribution patterns

• Apple vs. pear body shapes
• Abdominal fat vs. subcutaneous fat
• Muscle mass affects measurements

👥 Gender Differences

Different risk thresholds for men and women

• Women naturally have higher ratios
• Hormonal influences on fat distribution
• Pregnancy and menopause effects

⚕️ Health Implications

High WHR indicates health risks

• Cardiovascular disease risk
• Type 2 diabetes risk
• Metabolic syndrome

Example Cases

Case 1: Healthy Male

Measurements: Male
Waist: 82cm (32.3 inches)
Hip: 98cm (38.6 inches)

WHR Result: 0.837
Risk Category: Low Risk
Assessment: Healthy distribution

Use Case: This ratio indicates healthy body fat distribution with low cardiovascular risk. Continue current lifestyle.

Case 2: Female with Moderate Risk

Measurements: Female
Waist: 80cm (31.5 inches)
Hip: 95cm (37.4 inches)

WHR Result: 0.842
Risk Category: Moderate Risk
Assessment: Some abdominal fat

Use Case: This ratio suggests some abdominal fat accumulation. Focus on cardiovascular exercise and core strengthening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is waist to hip ratio (WHR)?

Waist to hip ratio (WHR) is a measurement that compares the circumference of your waist to that of your hips. It's calculated by dividing your waist measurement by your hip measurement. This ratio is used as an indicator of body fat distribution and health risk.

How do I measure my waist and hip correctly?

For waist: Measure at the narrowest point between your ribs and hip bone, usually just above your belly button. For hips: Measure at the widest part of your buttocks. Make sure the measuring tape is parallel to the floor and snug but not tight.

What are healthy waist to hip ratios?

For men, a ratio below 0.85 is considered low risk, 0.85-0.90 is moderate risk, and above 0.90 is high risk. For women, below 0.80 is low risk, 0.80-0.85 is moderate risk, and above 0.85 is high risk. These standards are based on WHO guidelines.

What health risks are associated with high WHR?

High waist to hip ratio is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and other health conditions. It indicates excess abdominal fat, which is more harmful than fat stored in other areas.

How can I improve my waist to hip ratio?

Focus on reducing abdominal fat through cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and a balanced diet. Avoid crash diets and focus on sustainable lifestyle changes. Regular exercise and proper nutrition are key to improving body composition.