Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio and assess cardiovascular health risk by WHO thresholds.
Measure at the narrowest point, around the navel
Measure at the widest point of the buttocks
Waist-to-Hip Ratio
Risk Category
Body Shape
Understanding Waist-to-Hip Ratio
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a simple measure of how fat is distributed across your body. It is calculated by dividing your waist circumference by your hip circumference. Because the ratio compares two measurements taken in the same units, the result is unitless: you can measure in centimeters or inches as long as both measurements use the same unit.
WHR is a useful indicator of central (abdominal) fat distribution. Excess fat stored around the waist and abdomen, known as visceral fat, is more strongly associated with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome than fat stored around the hips and thighs. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes WHR as a valuable predictor of these health risks, often outperforming body mass index (BMI) for assessing fat distribution.
WHR = Waist Circumference ÷ Hip Circumference
WHO Health Risk Classification
The World Health Organization classifies health risk based on waist-to-hip ratio thresholds that differ for men and women, since men and women naturally store fat differently.
| Health Risk | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Low Risk | 0.95 or below | 0.80 or below |
| Moderate Risk | 0.96 - 1.0 | 0.81 - 0.85 |
| High Risk | above 1.0 | above 0.85 |
Note: The WHO also identifies a "substantially increased risk" threshold of 0.90 or higher for men and 0.85 or higher for women.
Apple vs. Pear Body Shape
Apple Shape (Higher WHR)
An "apple" body shape describes people who carry more fat around the waist and abdomen, resulting in a higher waist-to-hip ratio. This pattern of central fat storage is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
Pear Shape (Lower WHR)
A "pear" body shape describes people who carry more fat around the hips and thighs, resulting in a lower waist-to-hip ratio. This pattern of fat storage is generally considered to carry a lower metabolic and cardiovascular risk than the apple shape.
Note: This calculator provides an estimate based on WHO guidelines and should not replace professional medical assessment. Waist-to-hip ratio is one of several indicators of health and does not account for muscle mass, overall body composition, or individual medical history. Consult a healthcare professional for a complete health evaluation.