To get accurate girth measurements, Place the tape measure on the right side of the body for limb measurements; make sure you or the person you are measuring stands erect but relax; take two measurements at each site (measurements should be within 1/4 inch of each other); and avoid pulling the tape too tight or not tight enough.

Using body tape is a simple method of measuring your circumference. You should have someone specifically a professional to perform this measurement. 

Step 1 

Place the tape measure on the right side of the body for limb measurements. The subject must stand erect but relaxed. 

Step 2 

Take two measurements at each location on your body. The measurements should be within ¼ inch of each other. Avoid pulling the tape too tight or not tight enough. Special cloth tapes known as Gulick tape can be purchased to help standardize the tension. 

Below is a list of the best sites to measure the circumference of the body   

1.  Abdominal-horizontal measures at level of umbilicus 

2.  Waist-horizontal measure taken at the level of the narrowest part of torso

3. Hips-maximum posterior protrusion of the buttocks 

4. Thigh (proximal)-just below the fold of the buttocks 

5. Upper arm-midway between the acromion and olecranon processes 

6. Forearm-maximum circumference with elbow extended and palm supinated 

7. Calf-maximum circumference between knee and ankle 

Body measuring tape 

Below is a sample chart to record your measurements