Weight Loss Tip #27: Take Your Measurements
Too many times we get wrapped up with looking at a number on a scale to determine how much progress we are actually making on our diet program. Because of the many factors of our daily food and water intake, that number may seem to yoyo up and down, causing serious frustration. While our scales are definitely not going anywhere, and they serve a great purpose daily it is important to also take your measurements pre-diet to really look at the gains you are making long term. Some people find themselves on the scale multiple times a day, so they are getting familiar with their body’s ebbs and flows. Taking your measurements weekly should be a new habit to help motivate, and encourage positive body changes!
It is important to realize that weighing yourself in a consistent fashion daily is important to more accurate readings. While some people think that there is a right and wrong time to weight yourself, just pick a time that works for your schedule and stick to it. While a number on a scale may feel defeating, what you may not realize is that your body is indeed making changes regardless of what your scale says. Regarding actually taking time to record your measurements may not seem like a pleasant task at first, but it will become more appealing as you see those numbers improve week over week.
Where To Start
There are common body measurements that are important to capture before you start up on your diet program. The bust, chest, waist, hips and torso are the most common so rad below on how to accurately take the measurements you will need to see your weight loss advances.
Bust: This is around your chest area, so get a measuring tape and start at your nipples and take the tape around the largest part of your chest. Make sure the measuring tape is on a tabletop plain parallel to the floor so that you are gaging correct measurements.
Chest: Similar to the bust measurement you will take the measuring tape and place it directly under your breasts/pecks. Once secured, measure completely around the torso and remember to keep your measuring tape on a flat plain parallel to the ground.
Hips: To get an accurate read of the hips, place the measuring tape around the widest parts of your hips and buttocks and take the measuring tape all of the way around.
Waist: Place the measuring tape around your mid section starting at your naval and measure your entire waist. Do not suck in or push out during this time, simply stand and get a reading with a normal amount of air in your lungs.
Biceps: Take the measuring tape from the top of your shoulder and stop about middle of the way on your bicep and measure a full circumference around.
When To Measure
Do not worry, you do not have to take your body measurements every single day, but it is recommended to take them every few weeks or every other week. As mentioned earlier about routines on the scale, the same is true for taking your measurements. Try and set a day, and time each couple of weeks to months to take your measurements to keep it consistent.
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Do not be discouraged by the number on the scale if you are dieting, rather take your measurements as a means for a “second opinion” when going through the ups and downs of trying to lose weight. Consistency is key for both weighing, and measuring so add it to your calendar! Measurements will start to become more fun when you see those positive changes occurring, so do not shy away from the realities of the numbers initially. Have fun with it, and surround yourself with people who are going to keep you accountable to achieving a healthier you!
