How to calculate waist-to-hip ratio
Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement, in the same units:
WHR = Waist ÷ Hip
A 32-inch waist and 40-inch hips give 32 ÷ 40 = 0.80. Measure the waist at its narrowest point and the hips at the widest part of the buttocks, keeping the tape level and snug.
WHO health-risk categories
| Risk | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Low | below 0.90 | below 0.80 |
| Moderate | 0.90 – 0.99 | 0.80 – 0.84 |
| High | 1.0 and above | 0.85 and above |
A higher ratio means more fat stored around the abdomen — the "apple" shape — which carries greater cardiovascular and metabolic risk than fat on the hips and thighs (the "pear" shape).
Use it alongside BMI
WHR shows fat distribution, while BMI reflects overall weight for height. Two people with the same BMI can have very different ratios, so the two measures together give a fuller picture.
Frequently asked questions
How do you calculate waist-to-hip ratio?
Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement, using the same units for both. A 32-inch waist and 40-inch hips give a ratio of 32 ÷ 40 = 0.80. Because it is a ratio, it does not matter whether you measure in inches or centimeters.
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
The World Health Organization considers a ratio below 0.90 for men and below 0.85 for women to be low risk. Higher ratios indicate more fat carried around the abdomen, which is linked to greater cardiovascular and metabolic risk.
Where do I measure my waist and hips?
Measure your waist at the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button, and your hips at the widest part of your buttocks. Keep the tape level and snug without compressing the skin, and measure while relaxed at the end of a normal breath.
What does an "apple" vs "pear" shape mean?
An apple shape carries more weight around the middle (a higher ratio), while a pear shape carries it around the hips and thighs (a lower ratio). Abdominal "apple" fat is more strongly associated with health risk than fat stored on the hips.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?
They measure different things. BMI reflects overall weight for height, while WHR shows where fat is distributed. Used together they give a fuller picture, since two people with the same BMI can carry fat very differently.
Disclaimer: Risk categories follow general WHO guidance and are not a diagnosis. This is for educational purposes only — consult a healthcare professional about your individual health.