Waist-to-Hip Ratio
Fat-distribution health indicator.
Formula
Live Calculator
MembersVariables
Example
80/100 = 0.8
How it works
Waist-to-hip ratio compares the size of the waist with the size of the hips, giving a simple way to describe how body fat is distributed. It works because a larger waist relative to the hips is often associated with more abdominal fat, which is more closely linked to certain health risks than fat stored around the hips and thighs. The ratio is unitless because both measurements use the same units, so the units cancel out.
When to use it
Use this formula when you want a quick screening measure of body shape related to health risk, such as in fitness assessments or general health checkups. It is especially useful when comparing people of different heights, since it focuses on body proportions rather than overall size.
Worked example, step by step
Step 1: Measure the waist circumference = 72 cm Step 2: Measure the hip circumference = 96 cm Step 3: Substitute into the formula: WHR = waist / hip = 72 / 96 Step 4: Calculate the ratio: WHR = 0.75 Final answer: The waist-to-hip ratio is 0.75
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using waist divided by height instead of waist divided by hip
- Mixing units, such as inches for waist and centimeters for hips
- Measuring the waist at the wrong location or not keeping the tape level
Did You Know?
Waist-to-hip ratio predicts heart-disease risk better than weight alone, since belly fat is especially harmful.
Share this formula
More in Health & Fitness
View allBody Mass Index (BMI)
BasicWeight-to-height ratio used to classify body weight.
BMI (Imperial)
BasicBMI using pounds and inches.
BMR (Mifflin, Men)
IntermediateBasal metabolic rate — daily calories at rest for men.
BMR (Mifflin, Women)
IntermediateBasal metabolic rate for women.
Total Daily Energy (TDEE)
IntermediateDaily calories burned including activity.
Max Heart Rate
BasicEstimated maximum heart rate by age.