Waist-to-Hip Ratio
WHR = waist circumference / hip circumference. Both measurements must use the same unit (cm or in). The result is a dimensionless ratio typically between 0.6 and 1.2.
Health
About Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Measure waist and hips in the same unit, then see your ratio, risk band, and body-shape hint in one calm view.
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About this calculator
What this does
Computes the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference using the same unit of measurement. Maps the result to sex-specific risk bands (low, moderate, high) with a visual gauge, threshold labels, and a body-shape indicator (balanced or apple) so you can interpret the number at a glance.
Who it is for
Health-conscious individuals tracking body composition, clinicians performing quick metabolic risk screening, and anyone following NHS-style guidance who wants to assess central fat distribution using a simple circumference ratio.
How it works
Select your biological sex and choose a unit (cm or inches). Enter your waist and hip measurements — the calculator divides waist by hip and instantly shows the ratio on a color-coded gauge. The risk band and body-shape hint update in real time based on established thresholds. A measure-points panel illustrates where to take each measurement.
Limitations
WHR is a screening ratio, not a direct measure of body fat percentage or overall health. It does not account for muscle mass, bone structure, ethnicity-specific cutoff variations, pregnancy, or individual fitness level. Always consult a healthcare provider for a complete health assessment rather than relying on a single ratio.
Formula
Women Thresholds
Low risk: WHR below 0.80. Moderate risk: 0.80–0.84. High risk: 0.85 and above. These cutoffs follow general population screening guidelines used by the NHS and WHO.
Men Thresholds
Low risk: WHR below 0.90. Moderate risk: 0.90–0.94. High risk: 0.95 and above. Men typically have higher healthy WHR ranges due to natural differences in fat distribution.
Body Shape Classification
Low risk ratios are labeled as balanced shape. Moderate and high risk ratios are labeled as apple shape, indicating more central fat distribution around the abdomen.
How it works
Step 1
Select your biological sex
Choose Women or Men to apply the correct risk thresholds. The calculator uses different cutoff values for each group based on established screening guidelines.
Step 2
Choose a measurement unit
Pick Centimeters or Inches. Both waist and hip measurements must use the same unit for the ratio to be valid.
Step 3
Measure your waist
Wrap a tape measure around your waist at the narrowest point, typically midway between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hip bone. Keep the tape snug but not compressing the skin.
Step 4
Measure your hips
Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks. Keep the tape level and relaxed for an accurate circumference reading.
Step 5
Read your results
The calculator instantly shows your ratio, risk band, body shape, and a color-coded gauge comparing your value to the population thresholds. Review the threshold labels below the gauge for context.
Step 6
Refer to the measure-points guide
Use the illustration panel that marks where to position the tape for waist and hip measurements. Correct placement is critical for a reliable WHR reading.
Reference ranges
Low Risk (Women)
WHR below 0.80. Associated with lower risk for cardiovascular and metabolic conditions. This is the balanced (pear) shape range.
Low Risk (Men)
WHR below 0.90. The healthy range for men, associated with lower central fat distribution and reduced health risks.
Moderate Risk
Women 0.80–0.84, Men 0.90–0.94. Indicates intermediate central fat distribution. Worth monitoring and discussing with a healthcare provider.
High Risk
Women 0.85+, Men 0.95+. Elevated central fat distribution. Associated with higher risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.