Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator
Instantly calculate your WHR, determine your body shape, and assess your cardiovascular health risks based on World Health Organization guidelines.
Calculate Your Waist to Hip Ratio
Enter your waist and hip measurements to instantly see your ratio, body shape classification, and associated health risk level.
WHR Estimator
Assess your health risk based on fat distribution.
Why WHR Matters
Understanding fat distribution and health
Beyond BMI
While BMI measures overall weight, WHR specifically measures fat distribution, which is a stronger predictor of heart disease and diabetes.
Visceral Fat Indicator
A higher ratio indicates more visceral fat (fat stored around internal organs), which is metabolically active and linked to inflammation.
Apple vs. Pear
‘Apple’ shapes (higher WHR) carry weight around the midsection, while ‘Pear’ shapes (lower WHR) carry weight around the hips and thighs.
Actionable Insights
If your ratio is high, targeted lifestyle changes like cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and a balanced diet can help reduce visceral fat.
WHO Health Risk Categories
The World Health Organization (WHO) uses these Waist-to-Hip Ratio thresholds to assess the risk of metabolic complications and cardiovascular disease.
| Risk Level | Men (WHR) | Women (WHR) | Health Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Risk | 0.90 or less | 0.80 or less | Minimal risk of metabolic complications. |
| Moderate Risk | 0.91 – 0.99 | 0.81 – 0.84 | Moderate risk of developing cardiovascular issues. |
| High Risk | 1.00 or higher | 0.85 or higher | Substantially higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. |
| Body Shape | Pear Shape: WHR < 0.80 (F) or < 0.90 (M). Apple Shape: WHR > 0.85 (F) or > 0.95 (M). | ||
Waist to Hip Ratio FAQ
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about measuring your WHR, interpreting the results, and improving your health.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a healthy WHR is 0.90 or less for men, and 0.85 or less for women. Ratios above these thresholds indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic conditions.
Measure your waist at the narrowest point, typically just above the belly button. Measure your hips at the widest part of your buttocks. Ensure the tape measure is snug but not compressing the skin, and keep it parallel to the floor. Take the measurement while breathing out normally.
WHR is a strong indicator of visceral fat (fat stored around internal organs). High levels of visceral fat are linked to a greater risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers, making WHR a better health predictor than BMI alone for many individuals.
An ‘apple’ shape (higher WHR) means fat is primarily stored around the abdomen, which carries higher metabolic health risks. A ‘pear’ shape (lower WHR) means fat is stored around the hips, buttocks, and thighs, which is generally considered metabolically safer and carries a lower risk of heart disease.