This online Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator estimates the ratio of a person’s waist circumference to their hip circumference. To calculate the waist to hip ratio (WHR) value choose the appropriate units of measurement and specify the waist size and the hip size either using the sliders or by entering the data into the calculator fields, then specify the gender.
What Is the Waist to Hip Ratio?
Waist to hip ratio (WHR) is a numerical value that compares the circumference of the waist to that of the hips. This ratio is an important measure used to assess an individual’s overall body composition and distribution of fat.
The waist to hip ratio is obtained by dividing the circumference of the waist by the circumference of the hips:
It provides an insight into the distribution of fat in the body, particularly around the waist and hips. This ratio serves as an indicator of overall health and is used to evaluate the risk of developing various health conditions.
Why Is Waist to Hip Ratio Important?
The waist to hip ratio is a valuable tool in assessing an individual’s health status and the associated risks. Many researches have shown that individuals with higher waist-hip ratios are more prone to health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, etc.
The distribution of fat in the body can be an important determinant of these risks, as abdominal fat, particularly visceral fat, is more metabolically active, produces more toxic substances and linked to increased inflammation and insulin resistance.
How to Measure Waist and Hips?
Calculating the waist-to-hip ratio is a straightforward process. Just follow these simple steps:
• Measure the waist. Using a flexible stretch-resistant tape measure, measure the circumference of the waist at the narrowest point between the ribs and the hips. Ensure that the tape measure is snug but not overly tight.
• Measure the hips. Measure the circumference of the hips at the widest part of the buttocks with the tape parallel to the floor.
• Calculate the ratio. Divide the waist measurement by the hip measurement to obtain the waist to hip ratio. Obviously, this ratio does not depend on the chosen length unit.
Although this calculation does not seem difficult, it is nevertheless much more convenient to use our online Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator.
What is the Perfect Waist to Hip Ratio?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the WHR value related to low health risk is below 0.95 for men and below 0.80 for women.
Advantages of Using the Waist to Hip Ratio Method
Calculating the waist-to-hip ratio is a simple process that requires only two measurements. It can be easily performed at home or in a clinical setting without the need for complex equipment.
Unlike body mass index (BMI), which considers overall weight and height, the waist-to-hip ratio specifically focuses on the distribution of fat around the abdomen. This is important because central obesity, characterized by excess fat around the waist, is generally associated with higher health risks. So this ratio can serve as an early warning sign to prompt individuals to make positive lifestyle changes.
That being said, it should not be forgotten that although the waist-hip ratio provides valuable information about the distribution of abdominal fat, it does not take into account the overall composition of the body.
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Check out our other health calculators such as Body Fat Calculator or BMI Calculator.
Disclaimer. Please remember that this online calculator is only one of many ways to assess your weight. In case of any concerns about your weight, please consult your physician to address your specific situation.