Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
This waist to hip ratio calculator helps you assess body fat distribution and potential cardiometabolic risk using WHO thresholds. It’s designed for anyone tracking health metrics, from clinicians and coaches to individuals on a wellness journey.
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Results update automatically once both measurements are provided.
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Data Source and Methodology
Primary reference: World Health Organization (2011). Waist Circumference and Waist–Hip Ratio: Report of a WHO Expert Consultation, Geneva, 8–11 December 2008. ISBN: 978 92 4 150149 1. Available at: https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/44583.
Tutti i calcoli si basano rigorosamente sulle formule e sui dati forniti da questa fonte.
- Formula: WHR = Waist circumference ÷ Hip circumference.
- Risk classification: WHO sex-specific thresholds as cited above.
- Units: Ratio is dimensionless; centimeters or inches can be used interchangeably if consistent.
The Formula Explained
Inline: $\\mathrm{WHR} = \\dfrac{W}{H}$
Where $W$ is waist circumference and $H$ is hip circumference, both in the same unit (cm or in).
Classification by WHO:
Female: Low if $\\mathrm{WHR} \\le 0.80$; Moderate if $0.81 \\le \\mathrm{WHR} \\le 0.84$; High if $\\mathrm{WHR} \\ge 0.85$.
Male: Low if $\\mathrm{WHR} \\le 0.90$; Moderate if $0.91 \\le \\mathrm{WHR} \\le 0.99$; High if $\\mathrm{WHR} \\ge 1.00$.
Glossary of Variables
- Unit system: Choose Metric (centimeters) or Imperial (inches). Both work as WHR is unitless.
- Sex (for thresholds): Applies WHO risk cutoffs specific to sex at birth.
- Waist circumference (W): The narrowest part of the torso, measured after a gentle exhale.
- Hip circumference (H): The widest part of the buttocks/hips.
- Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR): W ÷ H, displayed to two decimals.
- Classification: Low, Moderate, or High per WHO.
- Health Risk: A qualitative indicator associated with central adiposity and cardiometabolic risk.
Worked Example
How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example
- Select Metric (cm) and Female.
- Measure waist: W = 80 cm.
- Measure hips: H = 100 cm.
- Compute: $\\mathrm{WHR} = \\dfrac{80}{100} = 0.80$.
- Interpretation: For females, 0.80 is “Low”.
If you switch to inches (e.g., 31.5 in and 39.4 in), the ratio remains the same: 31.5 ÷ 39.4 ≈ 0.80.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
Per WHO: for women, ≤ 0.80 is low risk; 0.81–0.84 moderate; ≥ 0.85 high. For men, ≤ 0.90 low; 0.91–0.99 moderate; ≥ 1.00 high.
Is lower always better?
A lower WHR generally indicates less central fat accumulation and lower cardiometabolic risk, but health is multifactorial. Discuss your results with a healthcare professional.
WHR vs. BMI: which should I use?
They complement each other. BMI estimates body mass relative to height; WHR reflects fat distribution. Many practitioners also consider waist circumference alone.
How do I measure consistently?
Measure at the same time of day, after a gentle exhale for the waist, with a non-stretch tape kept horizontal and snug (not compressing).
Can I use inches instead of centimeters?
Yes. WHR is unitless. Just keep both measurements in the same unit.
Which thresholds should transgender or non-binary people use?
Threshold choice is individualized. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the reference most appropriate for your body and context.
Is my data stored?
No. This calculator runs entirely in your browser; values are not sent to a server.