Today I took on the daunting task of recording mine and my husband's current body measurements in preparation for the starting of the 21 Day Fix program and our new diets! I wanted to share a diagram that shows you how to accurately measure each area.
Not only is it a good diagram to go by, but it's also printable so you can quickly fill in your measurements and have a copy of them to look back on!
Tip: 1
My number one tip when it comes to recording your measurements/weight, is to USE AN ACCURATE/CONSISTENT SCALE! Check your weight a few times in a row, being sure to keep track of each readout, if it consistently produces the same number numerous times in a row, great! I personally prefer a dial scale, I had replaced mine years ago with a digital scale, but it was never consistent. My weight would fluctuate by 1-3 pounds in a matter of 15 seconds. While that may not sound like a big deal, there is nothing more discouraging than stepping on the scale when you've been working hard to lose weight and see that your weight hasn't changed, or even increased. If you have an inconsistent scale you could have actually lost weight but either your starting weight, current weight, or both are inaccurate due to your scale. So save yourself the headache and make sure your scale is accurate, or at least consistently produced the same results!
Tip # 2:
Remeasure each area at least twice, record the measurement each time and if there's any inconsistencies, measure again!
Tip #3:
Measure at the same area each time!
Tip #4:
When measuring thighs/calves/arms always measure at the fullest/widest point, this helps keep you consistent and accurate!
Tip #5:
Measure in front of a mirror so you can make sure the tape is straight all the way around.
Bust: When measuring your bust measure around the fullest part of your breasts (usually the nipple)
Chest: Measure just below your breasts
Waist: Measure at the smallest part of your torso, usually just 1-2 inches above your belly button.
Stomach: Line your measuring tape up in the center of your belly button and measure all the way around.
Hips: Measure at the fullest/widest part of your hips
Thigh: Measure at the fullest part of each of your thighs.
Calf: Measure at the fullest part of each of your calves.
Upper Arm: Measure at the fullest part of your upper arm, without flexing! (This is MUCH easier with the help of a friend.)
Forearm: Measure at the fullest part of your forearm. (Again, easier with the help of a friend.)
Measuring is an excellent way to keep track of your progress! Whether you're trying to lose weight or build muscle, sometimes the progress can't be scene by the scale, so knowing your measurements is another way for you to keep track of your progress and success!
Hopefully this is slightly helpful and takes some of the confusion out of it!
