What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?

WHO indicates substantially increased risk at WHR ≥0.90 for men and ≥0.85 for women. Lower values generally indicate lower central adiposity risk.

Is WHR better than BMI?

WHR and waist measures reflect fat distribution and may predict cardiometabolic risk independent of BMI. They complement, not replace, BMI.

Which unit should I use?

Use cm or inches consistently for both waist and hip; the ratio is unitless so the result is the same if units match.

How accurate are home measurements?

Accuracy improves with a flexible tape, level placement, relaxed abdomen, and repeating each measure twice; average if they differ.

Does age or ethnicity change the thresholds?

WHO notes variation by sex, age and ethnicity; population-specific cut-points can differ. Use WHR alongside BMI and clinical advice.

Can WHR be used during pregnancy?

WHR is not advised during pregnancy due to body shape changes; discuss alternatives with a clinician.

Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator — WHR, Risk Category & Guidance

Quickly compute your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and see your risk category using WHO-based thresholds. Designed for clinicians, coaches, and health-conscious individuals who want an accurate, accessible tool with measurement guidance, glossary, LaTeX formulas, and a worked example.

Data source & methodology

AuthoritativeDataSource: World Health Organization (WHO), Waist Circumference and Waist–Hip Ratio: Report of a WHO Expert Consultation (Geneva, 8–11 Dec 2008; published 2011). View source. All calculations strictly follow the formulas and thresholds reported by this source.

The formula explained

\( \text{WHR} = \frac{\text{Waist circumference}}{\text{Hip circumference}} \)

WHR is unitless. Use the same units (cm or inches) for both measurements.

Glossary of variables

Waist circumference — horizontal measure midway between the lowest rib and the iliac crest after a normal exhalation.
Hip circumference — horizontal measure at the widest part of the buttocks/hips.
WHR — waist divided by hip; a proxy for central fat distribution.
Risk category (WHO) — sex-specific thresholds:
- Men: WHR < 0.90 (lower risk), 0.90–0.99 (elevated), ≥ 1.00 (high)
- Women: WHR < 0.80 (lower risk), 0.80–0.84 (elevated), ≥ 0.85 (high)

How it works: a step-by-step example

Inputs: Sex = Female; Waist = 78 cm; Hip = 100 cm.

\( \text{WHR} = \frac{78}{100} = 0.78 \)

Result: WHR = 0.78 → falls below 0.80, indicating a lower central adiposity risk per WHO female thresholds.

Frequently asked questions

What is considered a high WHR?

Per WHO, substantially increased cardiometabolic risk is indicated at WHR ≥ 0.90 for men and ≥ 0.85 for women.

Is WHR more informative than BMI?

They capture different aspects. WHR reflects fat distribution and can predict risk independent of BMI; they are complementary in clinical assessment.

How do I improve an adverse WHR?

Lifestyle strategies that reduce central fat—balanced nutrition, resistance + aerobic training, sleep, and stress management—can help. Consult a clinician before changes.

Does ethnicity affect WHR thresholds?

WHO notes variation by sex, age, and ethnicity. Population-specific cut-points may differ; combine WHR with BMI, waist circumference, and professional advice.

Should I use cm or inches?

Either is fine—just use the same unit for both measures. The ratio is unitless.

Tool developed by Ugo Candido. Content reviewed by the CalcDomain Editorial Board.
Last accuracy review: October 30, 2025

Medical disclaimer: This tool is for information only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

waist to hip ratio calculator