Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator

Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a measurement tool that looks at the proportion of body fat stored on your waist compared to that stored at your hips and buttocks. It's easily calculated by dividing the waist circumference by the hip circumference. When there is more weight concentrated around the middle it is often referred to as an “apple” shape; whereas, the greater proportion of weight concentrated around your hips is referred to as a “pear” shape.

Research has shown that individuals with extra weight located around the middle can be at higher risk for diseases such as heart disease and diabetes compared to those who carry more of their weight around their hips and thighs. Abdominal fat, when out of proportion to total body fat, can be considered an indicator of health risks. A waist circumference measurement of over 35 inches in women and over 40 inches in men can itself be a good indicator of increased risk for certain diseases.

Use this helpful calculator to determine your WHR:

To measure your waist and hip circumferences:

To check your waist circumference use a tape measure to measure the distance around the smallest area of your waist, usually just above the belly button.

To check your hip circumference use a tape measure to measure the distance around the largest area of your hips, usually the widest part of the buttocks.

Enter your waist and hip circumferences and click on “calculate.”

waist circumference in inches
hip circumference in inches

Please note: WHR is not intended for children and those individuals who are less than five feet in height or who have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or above.

Your waist-to-hip (WHR) ratio is:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

For men, a ratio of .90 or less is considered safe.
For women, a ratio of .80 or less is considered safe.

For both men and women, a WHR of 1.0 or higher is considered “at risk” for heart disease and other problems associated with being overweight.

WHR should be used as a guideline. Always consult your physician for more information regarding your health risks, body mass index (BMI), and the healthy body weight that is right for you.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)