Our calculator is 95%+ accurate when you provide precise measurements taken correctly. Accuracy depends on: 1) Measurement precision: Using a flexible tape measure at exact anatomical points, 2) Proper technique: Standing naturally, not sucking in, tape parallel to floor, 3) Consistent conditions: Measuring at same time of day (morning ideal), similar clothing/state of undress. The calculator analyzes: Bust-Waist-Hip ratios, Shoulder-Hip proportions, Waist definition level, and Vertical proportions. It also considers borderline cases (like "pear with hourglass tendencies") and provides hybrid classifications when your measurements don't fit perfectly into one category—because many people don't.

Body Shape: Describes your silhouette and proportions based on where you carry weight. The five main shapes (hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, inverted triangle) are determined by bust-waist-hip ratios. This system is primarily used for fashion and styling guidance.
Body Type (Somatotype): Describes your overall physique and metabolic tendencies: ectomorph (lean, fast metabolism), mesomorph (muscular, responsive), endomorph (softer, stores fat easily). This system is used for fitness and nutrition planning.
Relationship: Your body shape often correlates with somatotype—pear shapes are frequently endomorphic in lower body; rectangles often ecto-mesomorphic; apples often endomorphic centrally—but not always. Our calculator focuses on shape for styling purposes but references type for fitness recommendations.

Your fundamental bone structure (shoulder width, hip width, ribcage size) remains constant, but your apparent shape can evolve due to: 1) Weight fluctuations: Gaining/losing 20+ pounds often accentuates your natural pattern—apples become more apple-like, pears more pear-like, 2) Aging: Post-menopause, estrogen decline often shifts fat from hips/thighs (pear/hourglass) to abdomen (more apple-like), 3) Pregnancy: Can temporarily or permanently widen hips, change bust size, 4) Exercise: Significant muscle development can alter proportions—building shoulders can make pears more balanced; building glutes can make rectangles more hourglass-like, 5) Medical conditions/hormones: PCOS, thyroid issues, cortisol excess affect fat distribution. Most people see shape refinement rather than complete change.

Use a soft, flexible tape measure (not metal or rigid):
Bust: Around fullest part, across nipple line, tape parallel to floor. Don't compress breast tissue. Wear a non-padded bra or measure braless.
Waist: Natural waist—bend side-to-side; where you crease is your natural waist. Typically 1-2 inches above navel. Don't suck in; breathe normally and measure after exhale.
Hips: Around fullest part of buttocks, including hip bones if they protrude. Typically 7-9 inches below waist.
Shoulders: From outer edge of one shoulder bone (acromion) across back to other shoulder.
High Hip: 3-4 inches below waist (useful for pear identification).
Measure in underwear or tight clothing, standing straight but relaxed. Take each measurement 2-3 times and use the average.

Different body shapes have distinct health implications: 1) Apple shapes (central obesity) have 3-5x higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome regardless of weight, 2) Pear shapes (lower body fat) have lower metabolic risk but more hip/knee/joint issues, 3) Hourglass shapes at healthy weight have lowest health risks, but if overweight, risk is similar to apple, 4) Rectangle shapes often have lower cardiovascular risk but may have lower bone density, 5) Inverted triangles may experience shoulder/upper back tension. Knowing your shape helps you: monitor relevant health markers, choose preventive screenings, and select exercises that address your specific risk factors while avoiding injury.