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Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Measure your waist and your hips and enter them with your sex. You get your waist-to-hip ratio, how it compares with the WHO threshold and the risk level for your waist size. Add your height to see the waist-to-height ratio.

Your numbers

Result

Estimate for information only, not professional advice. Last reviewed .

How we calculate it

The waist-to-hip ratio is your waist measurement divided by your hip measurement. The World Health Organization (2008 expert consultation) describes a ratio of 0.90 or more for men and 0.85 or more for women as abdominal obesity. It also gives waist circumference levels: 94 cm (37 in) for men and 80 cm (31.5 in) for women mark increased risk, and 102 cm (40 in) and 88 cm (34.6 in) mark substantially increased risk.

The waist-to-height ratio is your waist divided by your height. A common guideline is to keep it below 0.5, with 0.6 or more marking high risk. A man with a waist of 36 in and hips of 40 in has a ratio of 0.90, which is at the WHO threshold.

Assumptions and limits

  • This is an estimate for general information. It is not medical advice and cannot replace a conversation with a doctor or dietitian.
  • Measure the waist halfway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone, and the hips at the widest part, using the same units for both. Measure standing, relaxed and not pulling the tape tight.
  • These thresholds are population guidelines and do not apply equally to every body type or ethnic group.

Frequently asked questions

What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?

The WHO puts the threshold for abdominal obesity at 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women. A lower ratio is generally associated with lower health risks.

Why does waist size matter?

Fat carried around the middle is linked to a higher risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, more than fat carried elsewhere.

What is the waist-to-height ratio?

Your waist divided by your height. Keeping your waist under half your height is a simple guideline that works for many adults.

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Worked example (a fixed example using the starting numbers, it does not change as you type)

Inputs: Units = Inches; Sex = Male; Waist = 36; Hips = 40.

  • Waist-to-hip ratio 0.90
  • Against the WHO threshold At or above the threshold (0.90 for men)
  • Waist circumference Below the increased risk level

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Last reviewed: . Formulas and assumptions are described on our methodology page. For information only; not professional advice.