WHO Waist-Hip Ratio Methodology

Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Body fat distribution, classified by the WHO method.

Use this free waist to hip ratio calculator to measure how your body fat is distributed. This WHR calculator follows the WHO method, returning your ratio and a sex-specific risk classification with clear measurement guidance.

Sex

Units

Waist

Hip

Measure your waist at the midpoint between your lowest rib and hip bone, and your hips at their widest point. Units cancel, so either system works.

Waist-to-Hip Ratio —

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Low riskModerateHigh risk

WHO thresholds

Men: <0.90 low · 0.90–0.99 moderate · ≥1.00 high. Women: <0.80 low · 0.80–0.84 moderate · ≥0.85 high.

This calculator provides estimates based on published formulas and methodologies. Results are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Understanding your result

Waist-to-Hip Ratio compares the circumference of your waist to your hips, giving a simple measure of how body fat is distributed.

A higher ratio indicates more fat carried around the abdomen, a pattern the WHO associates with greater cardiometabolic risk than fat carried around the hips.

Risk thresholds differ by sex. The classification here follows WHO cut-off points; it is an indicator, not a diagnosis.

Methodology

WHR is waist circumference divided by hip circumference, both measured in the same unit so the units cancel out.

Following WHO guidance, measure the waist at the midpoint between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone, and the hips at the widest point of the buttocks.

Risk categories use WHO sex-specific thresholds: for men, below 0.90 is low; for women, below 0.80 is low, with elevated bands above.

The formula

WHR is waist circumference divided by hip circumference.

WHR = waist circumference ÷ hip circumference

Men: < 0.90 low · 0.90–0.99 moderate · ≥ 1.00 high
Women: < 0.80 low · 0.80–0.84 moderate · ≥ 0.85 high

References

Frequently asked questions

How do I measure my waist and hips correctly?

Measure the waist at the midpoint between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone, breathing out normally. Measure the hips at the widest part of your buttocks. Keep the tape snug but not compressing the skin.

Is WHR better than BMI?

They measure different things. BMI estimates overall body size, while WHR describes fat distribution. Many researchers consider WHR a useful complement to BMI rather than a replacement.

What WHR is considered healthy?

Using WHO thresholds, a ratio below 0.90 for men and below 0.80 for women is classified as low risk. Higher ratios indicate more abdominal fat and elevated risk.

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