How WHR is calculated
Waist-to-hip ratio is simply your waist circumference divided by your hip circumference. The World Health Organization links higher ratios to greater cardiometabolic risk: for men, risk rises above 0.90; for women, above 0.85. It captures where you store fat, which BMI cannot.
How to use it
Measure your waist at the narrowest point and your hips at the widest, keeping the tape level. Enter both (same units) and your ratio and risk category appear instantly.
Frequently asked questions
- Why is WHR useful?
- It reflects fat distribution. Carrying fat around the waist (apple shape) carries more health risk than around the hips.
- What is a healthy WHR?
- Roughly below 0.90 for men and below 0.85 for women is considered lower risk per WHO.
- WHR vs BMI?
- BMI measures overall size; WHR measures where fat sits. They complement each other.
- How should I measure?
- Use a flexible tape, stand relaxed, measure waist at the narrowest point and hips at the widest, without compressing the skin.