Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator NHS

This independent UK calculator works out your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) from waist and hip measurements. It also explains that current NHS and NICE weight guidance mainly recommends waist-to-height ratio alongside BMI for assessing central fat.

Waist-to-hip ratio calculator

What is waist-to-hip ratio?

Waist-to-hip ratio compares the circumference of your waist with the circumference around the widest part of your hips and buttocks. The formula is waist circumference ÷ hip circumference. Use the same unit for both measurements.

How to measure

For the waist, measure around the midpoint between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hips, breathing out naturally. For the hips, place the tape around the widest part of the hips and buttocks. Keep the tape level and comfortably snug without compressing the skin.

How to use the calculator

  1. Select centimetres or inches.
  2. Enter your waist circumference.
  3. Enter your hip circumference in the same unit.
  4. Select the relevant sex reference.
  5. Select Calculate.

Results and interpretation

Commonly used WHR reference values regard a ratio above 0.90 in men or above 0.85 in women as indicating greater central-fat-related health risk. These are general reference thresholds rather than a diagnosis.

Current UK guidance: NHS and NICE guidance now focuses on waist-to-height ratio as a practical estimate of central adiposity alongside BMI, particularly for adults with BMI below 35 kg/m². NICE advises trying to keep waist circumference to less than half of height.

Worked example

If your waist measures 80 cm and your hips measure 100 cm, your waist-to-hip ratio is 80 ÷ 100 = 0.80. The same answer would be obtained if both measurements were entered in inches.

Why waist-to-height ratio is also important

NICE classifies an adult waist-to-height ratio of 0.4 to 0.49 as healthy central adiposity, 0.5 to 0.59 as increased central adiposity, and 0.6 or more as high central adiposity. The NHS summarises the practical target as keeping your waist below half your height.

Limitations

WHR is a simple screening measurement and cannot diagnose diabetes, cardiovascular disease or any other condition. Measurement technique affects the result. Current NHS/NICE guidance generally gives waist-to-height ratio a clearer role than WHR in assessing central adiposity.

Authoritative sources

Related calculators

NHS Calculator · BMI Calculator NHS · BMI Calculator NHS Child · How Much Weight Have I Lost Calculator NHS · TDEE Calculator NHS

FAQs

How do I calculate waist-to-hip ratio?

Divide your waist circumference by your hip circumference, using the same measurement unit for both.

What waist-to-hip ratio is considered high?

Commonly used reference thresholds are above 0.90 for men and above 0.85 for women, but WHR is only a screening measure.

Does the NHS use waist-to-hip ratio?

Current NHS and NICE weight guidance mainly highlights waist-to-height ratio alongside BMI for assessing central fat and related health risk.

What waist-to-height target does the NHS recommend?

The NHS advises trying to keep your waist size to less than half your height.

Medical disclaimer: This independent calculator is for general information only. It is not an NHS diagnostic service and does not replace advice from a GP or other qualified healthcare professional.

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