Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator
Where you carry fat, and what the WHO says about it.
At the narrowest point, breathing out normally.
At the widest point across the buttocks.
Waist-to-hip ratio
0.86
Moderate risk
The WHO threshold for abdominal obesity is 0.90 for men. Risk rises continuously rather than switching at the line.
How the Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator works
Two people can weigh the same and carry it very differently. Fat around the abdomen sits alongside the organs and is metabolically active in a way that fat on the hips and thighs is not, which is why waist-to-hip ratio predicts cardiovascular and diabetes risk better than weight or BMI alone.
Not medical advice. This calculator gives a general estimate, not medical advice. It cannot account for your individual health, medical history, or medication. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional before acting on any result.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure waist-to-hip ratio correctly?
Measure your waist at its narrowest point, usually just above the navel, and your hips at their widest point across the buttocks. Stand relaxed, breathe out normally, and keep the tape level and snug without compressing. Divide waist by hip.
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
The WHO defines abdominal obesity as 0.90 or above for men and 0.85 or above for women. Below roughly 0.85 for men and 0.80 for women is considered low risk. Risk rises continuously rather than switching at the threshold.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?
For predicting metabolic and cardiovascular risk, generally yes — several large cohort studies have found waist measures outperform BMI. BMI remains useful as a population screening number because height and weight are easy to collect accurately, while tape measurements vary between people taking them.
Can I change where my body stores fat?
Not by targeting it. Fat distribution is largely set by genetics, sex and hormones, and spot reduction does not work. What does change is the total: losing weight tends to reduce visceral abdominal fat first, which is why waist measurements often improve faster than the scale suggests.