How to Take Body Measurements

For people trying to diet, stepping on the scale is sometimes exasperating. After a week of hard work and sacrifice, there is nothing worse than seeing the number go up. This can happen because of added muscle or variations in water weight. Women, especially, are susceptible to these variations. Instead of relying solely on the scale, take your body measurements to track your success. Read on to learn how to take body measurements.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

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Instructions

• 1

  Wear only undergarments when measuring. This provides consistency in body measurements, because some clothes are thicker than others.

• 2

  Hold the tape measure parallel with the ground so the measurements are the same every time.

• 3

  Use the same tape measure every time. Plastic and cloth tape measures can stretch, so it is a good idea to periodically compare it to a metal tape measure to make sure it is still accurate.

• 4

  Measure at the widest point of the body part you are measuring. The only exception to this is the waist. Measure the waist at the narrowest point.

• 5

  Measure your bust by lifting your arms and wrapping the tape measure around your chest. Place the tape measure at the widest part and pull firmly. Put your arms down to get the most accurate measurement.

• 6

  Record measurements for your hips, chest, arms, thighs and waist. Track your changes.