What WHR measures
Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) compares the circumference of your waist to your hips: WHR = waist ÷ hip. It captures where your body stores fat — a higher ratio means more central (abdominal) fat, which carries more metabolic risk than fat on the hips. An 85 cm waist over a 100 cm hip is 0.85. Total fat percentage is estimated separately by the body fat calculator.
How to use this calculator
Enter your waist and hip measurements in the same units and your sex. Measure the waist at the navel and the hips at the widest point, standing relaxed. The result shows your ratio and a general risk band.
WHR thresholds
The World Health Organization links raised health risk to a WHR above about 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women. These are population guides — individual risk depends on overall health, fitness and other factors. Pair WHR with the BMI and BRI for a fuller picture.
A screen, not a diagnosis
WHR is a quick, useful signal but not a verdict. Body shape, muscle and measurement technique all affect it. This tool is for general information only, not medical advice; discuss concerns with a clinician.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I calculate waist-to-hip ratio?
- Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement, using the same units. An 85 cm waist and 100 cm hip is 0.85.
- What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
- The WHO links raised risk to above about 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women, so values below those are generally considered lower risk.
- Where do I measure waist and hips?
- Waist at the navel and hips at the widest point, standing relaxed with a snug, level tape.
- Is WHR better than BMI?
- It adds information BMI misses by showing where fat sits. Many use both together rather than relying on one.
- Do waist and hip have to be in the same units?
- Yes, but either unit works. The ratio cancels units out, so 85 cm divided by 100 cm and 33.5 in divided by 39.4 in both give 0.85. Mixing centimetres and inches produces a meaningless figure.