# Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) to assess cardiovascular disease risk. Uses WHO guidelines to classify abdominal obesity and health risk level.

## What this calculates

The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a quick measure of fat distribution and a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease risk. Measure your waist and hip circumference to determine your WHR and see where you fall on the WHO risk scale.

## Inputs

- **Gender** — options: Male, Female
- **Waist Circumference** (cm) — min 40, max 200 — Measure at the narrowest point, typically at the navel
- **Hip Circumference** (cm) — min 50, max 250 — Measure at the widest point of the buttocks

## Outputs

- **Waist-to-Hip Ratio** — Your waist circumference divided by hip circumference
- **Health Risk Level** — formatted as text — Cardiovascular disease risk based on WHO thresholds
- **Body Shape Classification** — formatted as text — Apple-shaped (abdominal) or pear-shaped (peripheral) fat distribution

## Details

The waist-to-hip ratio is calculated by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference. The World Health Organization considers a WHR above 0.90 for men and above 0.85 for women to indicate abdominal obesity, which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

Research has shown that WHR can be a better predictor of heart disease risk than BMI alone. People with apple-shaped bodies (higher WHR) tend to store more fat around their internal organs (visceral fat), which is more metabolically active and harmful than subcutaneous fat stored around the hips and thighs.

To measure accurately, stand relaxed and measure your waist at the narrowest point (usually at the navel level) and your hips at the widest point of the buttocks. Use a flexible tape measure and ensure it is snug but not compressing the skin.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?**

A: According to the WHO, a healthy WHR is below 0.90 for men and below 0.80 for women. Ratios above these thresholds indicate abdominal obesity, which is associated with increased health risks including heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. However, WHR should be considered alongside other measurements like BMI and waist circumference for a complete health picture.

**Q: Is WHR better than BMI for assessing health risk?**

A: WHR and BMI measure different things and are both useful. BMI estimates overall body fat based on weight and height but does not indicate where fat is stored. WHR specifically assesses fat distribution, which is important because abdominal (visceral) fat poses greater health risks than fat stored on the hips and thighs. Many health professionals recommend using both measurements together.

**Q: How do I measure my waist and hips correctly?**

A: For waist measurement, stand upright and relaxed, and measure at the narrowest point of your torso, typically at or slightly above the navel. For hip measurement, stand with feet together and measure at the widest point of your buttocks. Use a flexible measuring tape that is snug but not compressing the skin. Take measurements over thin clothing or bare skin for accuracy.

**Q: Can I change my waist-to-hip ratio?**

A: Yes, WHR can be improved through a combination of regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and a balanced diet. Reducing abdominal fat through a caloric deficit will decrease waist circumference. Core-strengthening exercises can improve muscle tone. However, genetics also play a role in fat distribution patterns, so individual results will vary.

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Source: https://vastcalc.com/calculators/health/waist-to-hip
Category: Health & Fitness
Last updated: 2026-04-21