How to Take Body Measurements with an Anthropometric Tape Measure

How to take Body Circumference with Tape Measure

To measure the body with a tape measure follow the next steps and consider the following:

  • Take into account the technique of taking the tape: take the tape with the end of the 0 (zero) with the right hand and the shell of the tape with the left hand (the cm must be outwards).
  • Circle the segment to be measured until both hands are in front of the view.
  • Pass the end of the tape with the 0 to the left hand and the shell to the right hand and put one tape over the other so that the 0 is intercepted with the final number of the measurement, * not overlapping the tape on itself, so as not to cover the numbers.

how to take a tape measure

What is an Anthropometric Tape Measure?

An anthropometric tape measure or body tape measure is intended for the measurement of parts of the body.  It typically has some or all of the following characteristics:

  • Blank space before the zero (6-8cm ideally)
  • Thin, flexible steel blade (about 6mm ideally)
  • About 2m in length

Some less expensive models will have a fiberglasss blade rather than steel. Oftentimes people will use a tape measure that is intended for measuring the circumference or diameter of pipes or trees, which typically have the same specifications. ISAK (International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry) recommends the Lufkin W606PM diameter tape for body measurement.

Can you use any measuring tape for body?

The sewing tape measures are the most common used at home, but these are not always indicated to measure the body because they may not be standardized and give incorrect measurements.

What are diameter, pipe, logging, forestry, and tree tape measures?

Most anthropometric tape measures were first intended for pipe and tree circumference measurement.  "Diameter" indicates that the tape will have secondary set of numbers, usually on the reverse side of the tape, that shows the diameter calculation that corresponds to length measurement.  

This number is irrelevant for body measurement.

What are the parts of the body to measure with a tape measure?

Measurements Step by Step

  • Arm Circumference

    For this measurement, the length must be taken first and then the circumference.

    Length

    1. Identify the anatomical points: the lateral acromial process and mark it.
    2. Position the subject's arm at a 90 ° angle. Place the zero of the tape measure at the lateral acromial point and extend it to the olecranon (elbow bone)
    3. Without removing the tape, mark the middle of the measurement on the arm.

    Perimeter

    1. With the arm relaxed, surround it with the tape at the marked midpoint, this should be right in the middle of both tapes when intercepting. Read the measurement and write it down

  • Chest Circumference

    • Pass the tape over the most prominent part of the chest, making sure that it is completely horizontal (at the same height) in the back and in the front.
    • Or place the tape around the chest at the anatomical point of the intercostal space of the fourth rib, which is taken to measure the diameter of the transverse thorax

  • Waist Circumference

    • Pass the tape measure across the narrowest part of the abdomen, making sure that it is completely horizontal (at the same height) in the back and in the front.

  • Hip Circumference

    • The subject to be measured must have their arms crossed over their chest.
    • Pass the tape measure over the most prominent part of the buttocks, making sure that it is completely horizontal (at the same height) behind and in front.

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