Reading Your Ratio

The hip-to-waist ratio is the reciprocal of the waist-to-hip ratio: divide hip circumference by waist circumference. Higher values are healthier because they indicate a narrower waist relative to the hips, which reflects lower central (visceral) fat.

Thresholds

Inverting the WHO waist-to-hip cutoffs, men are at low risk at 1.11 or higher, and women at 1.18 or higher. Below these values, fat distribution shifts toward the abdomen and cardiovascular and metabolic risk rises.

Using the Measurement

Track the ratio over time with consistent tape placement — the narrowest waist point and the widest hip point. Combine it with BMI and waist circumference for a complete picture: BMI for overall size, waist and hip measures for where fat sits.