Measurement of body proportions.
The circumference of specific areas/points on the body is measured using a measuring tape. Start by marking the measurement points. When measuring, it is important that the measuring tape is horizontal and that it lies close to the skin. It should not be too tight so that the skin wrinkles, nor too loose so that there is a gap between the skin and the measuring tape. The athlete should wear tight clothing or as little as possible during the measurement.
Some of the most common measurement points are:
Waist
Measure at the narrowest point. If this is not obvious, measure from the bottom of the rib cage to the highest point of the hip bone (
) and measure halfway between the two points.
Hip
Measured across the largest point of the gluteal muscles
Breasts
Take it straight across the sternum. Your hands should hang relaxed at your sides.
Arm (Relaxed and tense)
- The arm is relaxed and hangs down alongside the body.
The circumference is measured midway across the biceps muscle. - The arm is held at a 90-degree angle at the elbow joint. The arm is tensed to the maximum and the circumference is measured at the widest point, directly above the biceps muscle.
Thigh
The athlete stands with their legs slightly apart. The circumference is measured approximately two centimeters below the gluteus. This type of measurement does not provide any relevant indication of body fat percentage but is a good yardstick for measuring body proportions. A combination of circumference measurement and caliper measurement can provide a good picture of the body's distribution of muscle and fat.
The most important factor for reliable results is that measurements are taken at the same place each time. Make a note of which points are measured and any deviations from the standard points. Metal measuring tapes are preferable, as plastic/fabric measuring tapes wear out over time and should be checked regularly.