How to use the Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
- Measure your waist halfway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone, after breathing out gently.
- Measure your hips around the widest part of the buttocks.
- Enter both in the same unit, centimetres or inches, and choose your sex.
- Read the ratio and how it compares with the threshold.
Formula used
WHR = waist circumference ÷ hip circumference. WHO treats a ratio of 0.90 or more in men, or 0.85 or more in women, as a substantially increased metabolic risk.
Worked example
Here is the Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator worked through with the example values shown above, so you can check each step by hand.
| Inputs | |
|---|---|
| Sex | Male |
| Waist (cm or inches) | 85 |
| Hip (same unit as waist) | 100 |
| Result | |
| Waist-to-hip ratio | 0.85 |
| Compared with WHO threshold | Below the threshold |
| WHO threshold for your sex | 0.90 (men) |
The calculation
WHR = waist ÷ hip. A waist of 85 and hips of 100 give 0.85, which is below the WHO threshold of 0.90 for men (below the threshold). A man with a 95 waist and 100 hips has a ratio of 0.95, which is at or above the threshold (at or above the threshold: increased risk).
For women the WHO threshold is 0.85. A woman with a 75 waist and 95 hips has a ratio of 0.79, below the threshold. With a 85 waist and 98 hips the ratio is 0.87, which is at or above the threshold: increased risk.
What the WHO thresholds mean
In its 2008 report on waist circumference and waist-hip ratio, the WHO treated a ratio of 0.90 or more in men and 0.85 or more in women as indicating a substantially increased risk of metabolic complications. These are screening cut-offs, not a diagnosis.
The WHO also gives waist circumference alone as a measure: increased risk from about 94 cm for men and 80 cm for women, and substantially increased risk from about 102 cm and 88 cm. Ethnic groups differ, and some guidelines use lower cut-offs for South Asian populations.
Why shape matters
Fat stored around the abdomen (visceral fat) is more strongly associated with metabolic risk than fat stored on the hips and thighs. Two people with the same BMI can have quite different waist-to-hip ratios and risk.
WHR complements BMI rather than replacing it. The BMI calculator on this site shows weight relative to height, while WHR shows where weight is carried.
Getting an accurate measurement and what to do
Use a flexible tape, keep it level and snug but not tight, measure over bare skin or thin clothing, and take each measurement twice. Measure at the same time of day, because your waist changes after a meal.
If your ratio is above the threshold, it is a prompt to look at activity, diet, sleep and smoking and to talk to a doctor, who can look at blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Do not use the ratio alone to judge your health. It is not suitable during pregnancy or for children.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
The WHO flags 0.90 or more for men and 0.85 or more for women as increased risk. Below those values is lower risk by this measure.
How do I measure my waist?
Halfway between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the hip bone, after a normal breath out.
Do I use centimetres or inches?
Either, as long as both measurements use the same one. The ratio has no unit.
Is WHR better than BMI?
It captures fat distribution, which BMI does not. Each has limits, and they are best used together.
Does this diagnose a health problem?
No. It is a screening measure only. Speak to a doctor about your health.
Can it be used for children or in pregnancy?
No. The thresholds apply to adults who are not pregnant.
This calculator gives estimates for information only. Actual figures from a bank, employer, tax authority or doctor may differ. It is not financial, tax, legal or medical advice.