What is waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)?

Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a simple measure that compares the circumference of your waist to that of your hips. It helps describe how fat is distributed on your body. A higher WHR usually indicates more fat stored around the abdomen, which may be associated with an increased risk of cardiometabolic conditions compared with a lower WHR at the same body size.

How do I calculate my waist-to-hip ratio?

Measure your waist and hip in the same unit (such as cm or inches), then divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement (WHR = Waist ÷ Hip). For example, if your waist is 80 cm and your hips are 100 cm, your WHR is 0.80. The calculator on WaistToHipRatioCalculator.com automates this math for you and supports multiple units including centimeters, inches, feet, and decimeters where applicable.

What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?

There is no single universal cutoff, but commonly referenced guidelines suggest that for women, a WHR below about 0.80 is often associated with lower risk, 0.80–0.85 with moderate risk, and above 0.85 with higher risk. For men, below about 0.90 is often considered lower risk, 0.90–1.00 moderate, and above 1.00 higher. These thresholds can vary by population, ethnicity, and clinical guideline, so always interpret them as general guidance only.

Can waist-to-hip ratio replace BMI or professional medical advice?

No. WHR is a quick screening tool that focuses on fat distribution around the waist and hips. It does not replace BMI, body fat measurements, medical examinations, or lab tests. Your overall health risk depends on many factors including age, family history, lifestyle, blood markers, and existing conditions. Use your WHR result as a starting point for awareness and discuss any concerns with a qualified healthcare professional.

How can I improve an unhealthy waist-to-hip ratio?

Improving an elevated WHR usually involves reducing central fat through sustainable lifestyle changes: balanced nutrition, regular physical activity (including strength training and cardio), quality sleep, and stress management. Because each person’s situation is unique, consulting a doctor or registered dietitian is recommended before making major changes. WaistToHipRatioCalculator.com is designed to help you track your ratio, not to prescribe a specific treatment plan.

Does it matter which units I use for my measurements?

You can use any supported units as long as both waist and hip are entered in the same unit when calculating WHR manually. Our calculator accepts multiple units and internally normalizes values to centimeters, ensuring accurate results regardless of your chosen unit system.

Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator

How the Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator Works

This calculator converts your inputs into centimeters internally to keep calculations consistent, then computes your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) as Waist ÷ Hip. You can enter measurements in centimeters, inches, feet, or decimeters (for waist) and centimeters or inches (for hips). Use the precision control to choose how many decimal places are shown in your result.

How should I measure my waist?

Measure your waist at the narrowest point between your lower rib and your navel, after a normal (not forced) exhale. Keep the tape snug but not tight, parallel to the floor, and against bare skin or thin clothing.

How should I measure my hips?

Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks. Again, keep the tape level and snug. Using the same unit for both measurements makes the ratio straightforward.

Why is waist-to-hip ratio important?

WHR reflects how fat is distributed on your body. A relatively higher waist compared with hips (higher WHR) is often linked with greater central or visceral fat, which has been associated with increased risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Unlike BMI, which only uses height and weight, WHR focuses on distribution, offering an additional perspective on health risk.

Typical reference ranges (general guidance only)

Women: Below ~0.80 often considered lower risk; 0.80–0.85 moderate; above 0.85 higher.
Men: Below ~0.90 often considered lower risk; 0.90–1.00 moderate; above 1.00 higher.

Thresholds may vary by guideline, ethnicity, and population. Use these numbers as broad orientation only.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate waist-to-hip ratio?

Use the formula WHR = Waist ÷ Hip using the same unit for both. For example: waist 80 cm, hips 100 cm → 80 ÷ 100 = 0.80. This tool automates the math and conversions for you.

What is a “good” or healthy WHR?

Lower WHR values generally indicate less central fat and potentially lower risk. Many references consider WHR below ~0.80 in women and below ~0.90 in men as more favorable. However, individual health depends on many factors—consult your doctor for a proper assessment.

Can WHR replace medical advice or lab tests?

No. WHR is a quick screening tool only. It does not diagnose disease and should not replace professional medical advice, blood work, imaging, or clinical evaluation. Always discuss concerning results or questions with a qualified healthcare professional.

How can I improve my waist-to-hip ratio?

Gradual lifestyle changes—such as balanced nutrition, strength training, regular cardio, good sleep, and stress management—may help reduce central fat. Any changes should be safe, sustainable, and ideally planned with a healthcare professional.

This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide medical diagnosis or individualized treatment advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for personal health decisions.