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Simple Calculators

Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Your waist-to-hip ratio and WHO risk category — a body-shape metric distinct from BMI

Measurements

Narrowest point, above navel

Widest point around buttocks

Screening tool, not a diagnosis: WHR is one indicator of cardiovascular and metabolic risk among many (family history, blood pressure, lipids, activity level all matter). Discuss results with a healthcare provider rather than acting on this alone.

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Quick summary

Waist-to-hip ratio (waist ÷ hip) predicts cardiovascular risk better than weight alone because it captures WHERE fat is stored — abdominal (\"apple\") fat carries more metabolic risk than hip/thigh (\"pear\") fat at the same body weight. WHO thresholds: for men, under 0.90 is low risk and over 1.0 is high risk; for women, under 0.80 is low risk and over 0.85 is high risk — women naturally carry a lower threshold because typical fat distribution differs by sex.

Reviewed by Simple Calculators TeamLast reviewed

For information only — not medical advice. Results are estimates from published formulas and can't account for your health history. Talk to a doctor or other qualified clinician before making health decisions.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the inputs requested by the calculator.
  2. Choose the units or options that match your situation and review the assumptions.
  3. Run or update the calculation to see the result.
  4. Review the result, breakdown, and formulas shown on the page.
  5. Check the inputs, units, dates, and limitations before saving or sharing the result.

Frequently asked questions

How do I measure waist and hip correctly?

Waist: at the narrowest point, usually just above the navel, after a normal exhale, without pulling the tape tight. Hip: at the widest point around the buttocks. Measure both in the same units, standing, without heavy clothing.

What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?

WHO classifies under 0.90 (men) or 0.80 (women) as low risk; 0.90–1.0 (men) or 0.80–0.85 (women) as moderate; above those as high risk. The thresholds differ by sex because typical body fat distribution differs — women naturally carry more hip/thigh fat, so the same ratio means something different physiologically.

Why use waist-to-hip ratio instead of BMI?

BMI can't distinguish muscle from fat or WHERE fat sits. Two people with identical BMI can have very different cardiovascular risk if one stores fat around the abdomen (visceral fat, linked to insulin resistance and heart disease) and the other around the hips. WHR — like waist circumference alone — captures that distinction; use both metrics together for a fuller picture.

What does 'apple shape' vs 'pear shape' mean?

Informal terms for body fat distribution: apple shape carries weight around the abdomen (higher WHR, more cardiovascular risk), pear shape carries it around hips and thighs (lower WHR). The pattern is influenced by genetics, sex hormones, and age — postmenopausal women often shift toward more apple-shaped distribution.

Key terms

WHR
Waist-to-hip ratio — waist circumference divided by hip circumference.
Visceral Fat
Fat stored around abdominal organs — more metabolically active and risk-associated than subcutaneous fat.
WHO Classification
The World Health Organization's 2008 waist-to-hip ratio risk thresholds, sex-specific.

Methodology, sources & limitations

This page shows the formula, assumptions, and limitations used for this estimate. Rates, thresholds, and other time-sensitive inputs can change, so verify them against the relevant official source before relying on a result.

For our review approach and the primary sources we consult, see the methodology and source policy. If you spot an outdated figure or formula, please contact us with a correction.