Waist-to-Hip Ratio Guide

How to identify if your weight is healthy or harmful

You can identify whether your weight is generally healthy or harmful by determining your waist-to-hip ratio.

To do this, measure the circumference of your hips at the widest part of your buttocks. Then measure your waist at its smallest circumference, which is usually just above the navel.

To calculate the ratio, divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement:

For women, a WHR of 0.8 or greater is indicative of an “apple” shape, with more fat carried around the middle. A WHR less than 0.8 is indicative of a "pear" shape, with weight more concentrated around the hips and buttocks. "Apples" face greater health risks than “pears.” For men, a WHR of 1.0 or greater indicates an apple shape, and similar health risks apply.