Understanding This Calculator
Waist-to-hip ratio measures fat distribution rather than total body fat. The World Health Organization uses it as a cardiovascular risk indicator because abdominal (‘apple-shaped’) fat storage is more strongly linked to metabolic disease than fat carried on the hips and thighs (‘pear-shaped’).
Measure waist at the narrowest point (usually just above the navel) and hips at the widest point, both without compressing the skin.
- waist circumference at the narrowest point
- hip circumference at the widest point
| Risk Level | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Low | < 0.90 | < 0.80 |
| Moderate | 0.90 – 1.0 | 0.80 – 0.85 |
| High | > 1.0 | > 0.85 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does WHR matter more than BMI for some conditions?
Visceral (abdominal) fat is metabolically active and more strongly associated with type 2 diabetes and heart disease risk than subcutaneous fat elsewhere, which BMI alone can’t distinguish.
Can I lower my WHR with targeted exercise?
Spot reduction isn’t supported by evidence — overall fat loss through a calorie deficit and consistent training tends to reduce abdominal fat proportionally over time.