Classify body shape from circumference ratios for clothing fit and physique planning.
Overview
Body type calculators usually classify shape patterns from simple anthropometric ratios such as shoulder-to-hip and waist-to-hip.
These outputs are descriptive, not diagnostic, and should be used for tailoring nutrition, training focus, and apparel decisions.
Steps
Use widest shoulder circumference or biacromial width input.
Measure narrowest waist or navel level consistently.
Measure at widest glute/hip point.
Compute WHR and shoulder-to-hip ratio.
Map ratios to triangle, rectangle, hourglass, or oval tendencies.
Use category as a planning guide, not a limitation.
Math
WHR = waist / hip; SHR = shoulder / hip
Shape classifications use relative proportions instead of absolute size, so ratio thresholds can identify distribution patterns.
Worked cases
SHR = 110/95 = 1.16; WHR = 80/95 = 0.84
Upper-body dominant pattern
SHR ~ 0.99; WHR = 0.75
Balanced shoulder-hip profile with narrow waist
WHR = 96/100 = 0.96
Higher central ratio; review cardio-metabolic markers
Why use this
Questions