How to measure your body
Where to put the tape for each measurement in the form, shown on a figure. Measured the same way every time, the numbers show what really changed.
Before you start
- Use a soft tape measure, on skin or thin clothing.
- Stand relaxed, feet together, and breathe normally.
- Keep the tape level with the floor and snug, without pressing in.
- Measure in the morning before eating, at the same time and with the same tape at every check-in.
- Measure twice; if the two numbers differ, measure a third time.
- Measure arm and thigh on the same side every time.
Neck required
Just below the Adam's apple. Head straight, looking ahead; the tape slopes slightly down at the front.
Chest
Around the widest part of the chest, under the armpits and across the nipples, after a normal breath out.
Shoulders (around)
Around the widest part of the shoulders and upper arms, arms by your sides. Easier if someone else measures.
Shoulder width
From behind, straight across from the bony tip of one shoulder to the other. Someone else needs to measure.
Upper arm
Halfway between the tip of the shoulder and the elbow, arm relaxed and hanging.
Waist required
Over the navel, level with the floor, after a normal breath out. Don't pull the stomach in.
Hips required
Feet together, around the most prominent part of the buttocks, level with the floor. Check it is level in a mirror from the side.
Thigh
At the top of the thigh, about 2 cm below the buttock crease, weight on both feet.