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WAIST-HIP RATIO
Waist-to-Hip Ratio or Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) is the ratio of the circumference of the waist and the circumference of the hips. In other words, WHR refers to proportions by which fat is distributed around the torso. The concept and significance of WHR was first theorized by Evolutionary Psychologist, Dr. Devendra Singh at the University of Texas at Austin in 1993. "Adaptive significance of female physical attractiveness: Role of waist-to-hip ratio." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 65.
A WHR of 0.7 for women and 0.9 for men has been shown to strongly correlate with general health and fertility. For example women within the 0.7 range have optimal levels of estrogen, are less susceptible to major diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders and risk for ovarian cancers. Men with WHRs around 0.9, similarly, have been shown to be more healthy and fertile with less prostate and testicular cancer.
WHR is considered to be factor in judging female and male attractiveness. Women with a 0.7 WHR (waist circumference that is 70% of the hip circumference) are often rated as more attractive by men, regardless of their culture, race, religion, ethnicity or any other subjective factors. Such diverse beauty "icons" as Marilyn Monroe, Twiggy, Sophia Loren, Kate Moss, Salma Hayek, and the Venus de Milo all have ratios around 0.7 despite having significantly different weights. Consequently, there is strong evidence to suggest that from an evolutionary perspecitve humans use subtle biological cues, such as WHR, to indicate mate potential and fertility.
To make this measurement, use a nonstretchable tape. Make sure it is level (parallel to the floor) around the body, tightened but not so much as to depress the skin. The hips are measured at the widest part of the hip bones. The waist is measured just about the crest of the upper hip bones. Then simply divide the waist measurement by the hip measurement to get the ratio.
See also
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