Health & Fitness

What Is Waist-to-Hip Ratio?

Waist-to-hip ratio is waist circumference divided by hip circumference. It indicates how fat is distributed on the body. The World Health Organization identifies ratios of 0.90 or higher in men and 0.85 or higher in women as associated with substantially increased health risk.

How to Measure

Waist is typically measured midway between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone; hips at the widest part of the buttocks.

Example

A waist of 76 cm and hips of 96 cm give 76 ÷ 96 ≈ 0.79.

🧮 Calculate It Yourself

Put Waist-to-Hip Ratio into practice with these free calculators — no sign-up, nothing stored.

➗ Ratio Calculator Simplify ratios, solve for a missing value, and scale ratios up or down. Calculate → 📏 Body Fat Percentage Calculator Estimate your body fat using the U.S. Navy circumference method. Calculate →

🔗 Related Terms

Waist-to-Height Ratio Body Mass Index (BMI) Body Composition

More Health & Fitness Terms

📖 Browse all glossary terms or explore all free calculators.

Last updated: September 29, 2026. This definition is for general educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, legal, or medical advice, and it does not recommend any product or course of action. For decisions about your own situation, consult a qualified professional.