Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator
Calculate your Waist to Hip Ratio (WHR) to assess health risks related to body fat distribution, based on your waist and hip circumferences.
Result
Detailed Steps
Visual Representation
Formula
Waist to Hip Ratio Calculation
The WHR is calculated by dividing the waist circumference by the hip circumference, using consistent units (e.g., cm or in):
Unit Conversion
To convert between units:
Health GuidelinesGuidelines for lower health risk, based on commonly used standards:
| Gender | WHR | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Men | < 0.95 | Low risk of health issues (e.g., heart disease) |
| Men | ≥ 0.95 | Increased risk |
| Women | < 0.80 | Low risk of health issues |
| Women | ≥ 0.80 | Increased risk |
Aesthetic Note: A WHR of approximately 0.7 is often considered the “golden ratio” for aesthetic proportions, particularly in women.
Consult a healthcare provider to interpret results and assess overall health risks.
How to Use the Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator
- Measure your waist circumference at the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button.
- Measure your hip circumference at the widest part, typically around the buttocks.
- Enter your waist circumference (e.g., 71 cm or 28 in).
- Enter your hip circumference (e.g., 89 cm or 35 in).
- Select the units (cm or in) for both measurements.
- Choose your gender (Male or Female).
- Choose your preferred display mode (Standard, Step by Step, or Chart).
- Click the “Calculate” button to view your WHR.
- Review the results to ensure your WHR is below the health risk threshold for your gender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the waist-to-hip ratio?
The WHR is the ratio of your waist circumference to your hip circumference, used to assess body fat distribution and related health risks.
Why is the WHR important?
It indicates whether you carry excess fat around the waist (“apple shape”), which is riskier for health issues like heart disease compared to fat around the hips (“pear shape”).
What is a healthy WHR?
For men, a WHR < 0.95 is considered low risk; for women, < 0.80 is low risk. Higher ratios indicate increased health risks.
How do I measure my waist and hips correctly?
Measure your waist at the narrowest point (usually above the belly button) and your hips at the widest point (around the buttocks) using a flexible tape measure, keeping it snug but not tight.
What is the “golden ratio” for WHR?
A WHR of approximately 0.7 is often cited as the “golden ratio” for aesthetic proportions, particularly in women, though health guidelines prioritize risk thresholds.