Financial term · Reviewed August 17, 2026
Waist-to-hip ratio
Waist-to-hip ratio: Waist circumference divided by hip circumference, used alongside BMI to describe where body fat is carried. The Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator returns this figure from waist-to-hip ratio = waist ÷ hip. waist-to-height ratio = waist ÷ height. At that calculator’s documented worked-example inputs the waist-to-hip ratio is 0.85; holding every other input steady, moving waist circumference from 27 to 41 moves it from 0.675 to 1, a spread of 0.35.
Where fat is carried, not only how much, is what this adds: information BMI cannot supply at all. Two people at the same BMI with different distributions are not in the same position, and the ratio is a cheap way to see it. Two measurements, no equipment beyond a tape, and it captures something BMI structurally cannot. Where the weight sits. That is a genuinely useful addition for a measure that costs a minute.
| Term | Waist-to-hip ratio |
|---|---|
| Category | Body Composition |
| How it is found | Waist-to-hip ratio = waist ÷ hip. Waist-to-height ratio = waist ÷ height |
| Worked example | Waist-to-hip ratio: 0.85 |
| Computed by | Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator |
| Related terms | 6 defined in this glossary |
Before you rely on it
What to check
Measure at consistent landmarks, tape level, body relaxed.
The common error
Where people go wrong with waist-to-hip ratio
Comparing measurements taken differently. Small changes in tape placement move the ratio more than real change does.
Worked through
Waist-to-hip ratio in plain numbers
Measure the waist at its narrowest point, or midway between the ribs and the hip bones, and the hips at their widest; a waist of 85 centimeters and hips of 100 centimeters give a ratio of 0.85. The World Health Organization has described abdominal obesity as above 0.90 for men and above 0.85 for women, one of several cutoffs in use. Two people can share a BMI and differ in ratio, with fat carried mostly around the abdomen for one and around the hips for the other. Research has linked abdominal fat to higher cardiovascular and metabolic risk, and the ratio is a screening measure, not a diagnosis.
Easily confused
Waist-to-hip ratio and its neighbours
The waist-to-hip ratio is not BMI or body fat percentage. BMI compares weight with height. Waist circumference alone is another simple indicator of abdominal fat, and waist-to-height ratio is a related measure; the waist-to-hip ratio describes the distribution of fat, not the amount. Cutoffs differ across organizations and populations, and results depend on measuring technique; a change in ratio over time can show a shift in distribution even when weight is steady.
In real decisions
Where waist-to-hip ratio turns up
Clinicians and researchers use it, alongside BMI and waist circumference, to assess risk. Fitness professionals track it to see changes in body shape; people use calculators to understand where they fall relative to published guidelines; it can prompt a conversation with a health professional about lifestyle and risk factors. Measurements should be taken consistently, ideally by the same method at the same time of day.
Know the edges
Where waist-to-hip ratio stops being reliable
Measurement errors are common. Cutoffs are population averages and do not fit everyone, and they vary by age and ethnicity. Pregnancy, certain body types and medical conditions affect readings. This page is educational and is not medical advice; anyone with health concerns should consult a qualified clinician for a full assessment.
Quick answers
What people ask about waist-to-hip ratio
How do I measure my waist and hips? Stand relaxed. Measure the waist at the narrowest point or midway between the ribs and hip bones, and the hips at the widest point. Use a flexible tape and keep it level.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI? It captures fat distribution, which BMI does not. Each has limits. Clinicians often use them together with other information.
Can I change my ratio? It can shift with weight change and activity, though body shape has a genetic component. Discuss goals with a health professional.
Put it to work
How waist-to-hip ratio is calculated
At the waist-to-hip ratio calculator’s worked-example inputs, waist-to-hip ratio is 0.85, waist-to-height ratio is 0.507. Moving waist circumference from 27 to 41 moves that first figure from 0.675 to 1.
Open the Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator →
These are population-based formulas, not diagnoses. Frame size, muscle mass, ethnicity and other factors these formulas do not measure can shift what is healthy for a given person. Consult a healthcare provider for individual guidance.
Related vocabulary
Terms used alongside this one
Keep reading
Nearby in the glossary
- ← Volatility
- Weighted average cost of capital →
- All 174 defined termsThe complete Free Calculators Online financial glossary.