Waist to Hip ratio

Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator estimates the dimensionless ratio of the circumference of the waist to that of the hips. Scroll down if you wonder what conclusion you might draw from your waist-hip ratio or how to measure waist and hips properly!

The waist-hip ratio is, generally speaking, an indicator or measure of health, and the risk of developing serious health conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, or Alzheimer's disease. Research shows that people with "apple-shaped" bodies (with more weight around the waist) face more health risks than those with "pear-shaped" bodies who carry more weight around the hips.

Waist-hip ratio is used as a measurement of obesity. The WHO states that abdominal obesity is defined as a waist–hip ratio above 0.90 for males and above 0.85 for females or a body mass index (BMI) above 30.

Another way of measuring obesity is absolute waist circumference above 40 in (102 cm) in men and above 35 in (88 cm) in women.

It's more complicated than you might think. We suggest these two options:

• According to the WHO's data gathering protocol, the waist circumference should be measured at the midpoint between the last palpable rib and the top of the iliac crest, using a stretch‐resistant tape. Hip circumference should be measured around the widest portion of the buttocks, with the tape parallel to the floor.
• Practically, the measurements are usually taken at the smallest circumference of the natural waist, usually just above the belly button, and the widest part of the buttocks or hip.

The waist-hip ratio is calculated as waist measurement divided by hip measurement: W ÷ H.
For example, a person with a 28 in (71 cm) waist and 35 in (89 cm) hips has a waist–hip ratio of 0.8.