Measuring your training progress is a great way to reinforce achievement of your physical fitness and/or weight loss goals.  Circumference measurements are one of many common methods by which you can do this.  Using a tape measurer you can take circumference measurements at various locations on your body.  When it comes to measuring your training progress, taking circumference measurements may be more useful than weighing yourself because they allow you to see if you are losing inches, which is more indicative of changes in your body composition (click here to learn more about body composition). In order to measure your training progress use a good tape measurer, made of linen or plastic, to take measurements at the following locations once or twice a month:

Waist

• At the narrowest part of you torso (above your navel and below your breastbone).
  

Chest

• Around the upper torso just below your armpits.

Shoulders

• At the maximum width around your shoulders and upper torso.

Arm

• Midpoint between your shoulder and elbow with your palm up and your arm straight and extended in front of your body.

Forearm

• At the maximum width of your forearm with your arm extended in front of your body and your palm up.

Abdomen

• One inch above your navel.

Hips

• At the maximum width of your hips (or buttocks) with your heals together.

Thigh

• At the maximal width of your thigh with your legs slightly apart.

Calf

• At the maximum width between your knee and ankle.

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Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a physician for advice.