How and Why to Take Your Own Body Measurements

Everybody can hop on a scale and look at a number. But when it comes to health and fitness, there’s so much more than just your weight.

 

If you’d rather “listen” to this blog post and see a few pictures along with it, check out this video.

Or skip the video, and just keep reading below.

Same content; just different format.

 

 

If you’re getting ready to begin some serious lifestyle changes in the hopes of improving your health and wellness,  (for instance, if you’ve joined one of my Accountability (Challenge) groups), then you’re going to want to learn how to take your body measurements.

I know pulling out a tape measure with regards to your own body is never fun, but this is definitely one way that you will be able to see changes. And another bit of potentially stressful news: this really works best with someone else’s help. Recruit your spouse or a dear friend to help you with the measuring if possible.

 

Ready? Always make sure the tape is parallel to the floor and snug, but not tight. We’re looking at five places on the body, each with their own unique instructions:

1. Chest – WIth your arms relaxed at your sides, measure around the ribs and… let’s say… the fullest parts – (without a bra if possible – or at least wear the same bra every time you measure).

2. Biceps – Again, with arms relaxed at your sides, measure at the halfway point between the elbow and the shoulder (Can do both arms).

3. Waist – Measure circumference of your waist right at the belly button level.

4. Hips – With legs together and feet touching, measure the widest part of your hips (including the biggest bulk of your rear).

5. Thighs – With feet shoulder width apart and weight equal in both legs, measure around the thigh at the halfway point between the knee and the inseam. (Again, can do both legs).

 

In addition to the tape measurements, it’s also a good idea to snap some “before” and “after” photos as well. A few quick tips for this:

1. Wear snug-fitting clothing simply so that you can clearly see your body.

2. Stand against a plain background or a white wall so that there are not optical illusions.

3. Take photos from all four angles: front, tilted, side, back

4. Do NOT suck it in or push it out. Just relax, exhale, and snap the picture so you capture a true reflection of your body.

 

After 30 days of consistent workouts and improved nutrition, you will see results! Just be sure to be very precise in using the exact same places on your body and wearing the exact same clothes when you remeasure.

 

But always remember that numbers and photos are never a measure of your worth! You are a unique human being created in love. And while I strongly believe we are called to care for our bodies as stewards, please know that you are not any more nor any less worthy depending on the numbers or pictures that you see. This is just one way for you to observe the changes in your body as you begin taking control of your health.

 

If you want more fitness tips and accountability for making some healthy lifestyle changes, let me know. I’d love to do whatever I can to help! Leave a comment below or email everydayfaithandfitness (at) gmail (dot) com.