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Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

Waist-to-hip ratio compares the size of your waist with the size of your hips, as a simple measure of where your body stores fat. Enter both measurements in inches or centimeters and select your sex to see the ratio against the World Health Organization cut-off.

Quick examples

Midway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone.

Around the widest part of the buttocks.

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Waist-to-hip ratio0.85
Compared with the WHO cut-off
Below the WHO cut-off of 0.90
Waist at the cut-off for your hips
36 in

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      Formula

      Waist-to-hip ratio = waist circumference ÷ hip circumference
      WHO cut-off: 0.90 for men, 0.85 for women

      How to use it

      1. Measure your waist midway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone, after breathing out normally.
      2. Measure your hips around the widest part of the buttocks, tape level all the way round.
      3. Enter both in the same unit and read the ratio.

      Worked examples

      A woman with a 32 in waist and 40 in hips

      Waist-to-hip ratio
      0.8
      Compared with the WHO cut-off
      Below the WHO cut-off of 0.85

      A man with a 38 in waist and 40 in hips

      Waist-to-hip ratio
      0.95
      Compared with the WHO cut-off
      At or above the WHO cut-off of 0.90

      Reading the result

      A 2008 WHO expert consultation used a ratio of 0.90 or more in men and 0.85 or more in women as the level associated with substantially increased risk of metabolic complications. A higher ratio means relatively more fat carried around the abdomen — the “apple” pattern — rather than around the hips and thighs.

      The ratio depends on both measurements, so it can stay the same while you lose or gain weight evenly. Waist circumference on its own, or waist-to-height ratio, is often tracked alongside it.

      This is an estimate for general information, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor or other qualified clinician before making health decisions based on it.

      Questions people ask

      What is a good waist-to-hip ratio?

      Below 0.90 for men and below 0.85 for women, using the WHO cut-offs. A woman with a 32 in waist and 40 in hips has a ratio of 0.80.

      How do I calculate waist-to-hip ratio?

      Divide your waist by your hips, both in the same unit. A 38 in waist and 40 in hips gives 38 ÷ 40 = 0.95.

      Does the unit matter?

      No. Because it is a ratio, inches or centimeters give the same answer as long as both measurements use the same unit.

      Related calculators

      Waist-to-Height Ratio CalculatorWaist ÷ height — the “keep your waist under half your height” check.Body Fat CalculatorBody fat percentage from a tape measure, by the US Navy method.BMI CalculatorBody mass index, its WHO category and the healthy weight range for your height.Ideal Weight CalculatorIdeal body weight by Devine, Robinson, Miller and Hamwi, plus the healthy BMI range.