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Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Your ratio, plus a WHO-published cardiovascular risk category.

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Measured at the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button.

Measured at the widest point around your hips/buttocks.

Waist-to-Hip Ratio0.89
Cardiovascular Risk Category (WHO)Low Risk
Risk CategoryMenWomen
Low RiskBelow 0.90Below 0.80
Moderate Risk0.90 – 0.990.80 – 0.84
High Risk1.00 and above0.85 and above

This is a general estimate based on standard published formulas, not a medical assessment — it doesn’t account for your individual health history. Results are informational only and aren’t a substitute for advice from a doctor or qualified professional. Read the full disclaimer.

How to Use This Tool

  1. 1Measure your waistAt the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button.
  2. 2Measure your hipsAt the widest point around your hips/buttocks.
  3. 3Read your ratio and risk categoryCategorized against WHO thresholds, which differ for men and women.

Good to Know

  • Waist-to-hip ratio is considered by some researchers a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than BMI alone, since it reflects where fat is stored (abdominal fat carries more risk than fat stored elsewhere).
  • Measure both circumferences with the tape snug but not compressing the skin, standing relaxed, and breathing out normally.
  • Risk thresholds differ by sex because men and women naturally carry weight differently — the same ratio does not mean the same risk for both.
  • This is a screening indicator, not a diagnosis — it's one data point among many a doctor would consider for cardiovascular risk assessment.

The Formula

Waist-to-Hip Ratio = Waist Circumference ÷ Hip Circumference

Example: a 34-inch waist and a 40-inch hip gives a ratio of 0.85 — for a man, that falls in the low-risk band (below 0.90); for a woman, that same 0.85 falls in the high-risk band (0.85 and above), which is exactly why the thresholds differ by sex.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?

For men, below 0.90 is considered low risk. For women, below 0.80 is considered low risk. These WHO-published thresholds account for the fact that men and women naturally distribute body fat differently.

Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?

They measure different things — BMI is a ratio of weight to height and doesn't distinguish fat from muscle or where fat is stored. Waist-to-hip ratio specifically reflects abdominal fat distribution, which several studies link more directly to cardiovascular risk. Many health professionals consider the two complementary rather than one replacing the other.

How exactly should I measure?

Waist: wrap the tape around the narrowest point of your torso, typically just above the belly button, after breathing out normally. Hip: wrap the tape around the widest point of your hips/buttocks. Keep the tape level and snug, not compressing the skin.

Is this free to use?

Yes, completely free, with no account and no limit on how often you check it.