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Why waist-to-hip ratio matters
Where the body stores fat changes health risk more than weight alone suggests. Fat carried around the abdomen (the apple shape) is linked to insulin resistance and cardiovascular strain, while fat around the hips and thighs (the pear shape) is metabolically calmer. Dividing waist circumference by hip circumference captures that shape in one number, which is why the WHO uses WHR alongside BMI and waist size to screen for weight-related risk.
How to measure accurately
Stand relaxed and breathe normally. Wrap the tape around the waist at its narrowest point — usually just above the navel — keeping it level and snug but not compressing the skin. Then measure around the widest part of the hips and buttocks in front of a mirror to keep the tape flat. Take each measurement twice; a couple of centimeters of sloppiness can move the ratio enough to shift categories.
Contexto local: España
Datos locales de España, útiles para cálculos cotidianos:
- IVA: 21 % general (10 % hostelería, 4 % alimentos básicos), siempre incluido en el precio.
- Moneda y pagos: Euro (€); tarjeta sin contacto y Bizum muy extendidos.
- Unidades y números: Sistema métrico; coma decimal y punto de millar: 1.234,56 €.
- Nóminas: Costumbre de 14 pagas (extra en julio y diciembre) en salarios y algunas rentas.
- Propina: Voluntaria, 5–10 % o redondeo; el servicio va incluido en el precio.
Actualizado: octubre 2026 · valores de 2025, fuentes oficiales arriba.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is WHR better than BMI?
They measure different things. BMI reflects overall weight for height but cannot see where fat sits; WHR reflects fat distribution but ignores total mass. Together they screen better than either alone.
Why do the thresholds differ for men and women?
Healthy fat distribution differs by sex: women naturally carry a larger share of fat around the hips. A ratio that is unremarkable for a man can flag abdominal risk for a woman, so the WHO uses different cutoffs.
Can I lower my WHR?
Usually yes. Abdominal fat responds to the same levers as other fat — a modest calorie deficit, regular activity, sleep, and alcohol in moderation — and spot-reduction myths aside, overall fat loss tends to shrink the waist first.