How to Measure Hips: A Guide to Accurate Measurements

I. Introduction

Having accurate hip measurements is important for various reasons such as tracking weight loss, buying clothing that fits well, and understanding your body shape. There are a variety of methods available to measure hips, each with their own pros and cons. This article will detail the different methods available and provide information on how to use them effectively.

II. Method #1: Using a Tape Measure

One of the most common methods for measuring hips is by using a tape measure. You should begin by wearing tight-fitting clothing, such as leggings or tight pants, to ensure an accurate measurement. Follow these steps for accurate hip measurements:

1. Stand up straight and keep your feet together.
2. Locate the widest part of your hips, taking care to ensure that the tape measure is parallel to the floor.
3. Wrap the tape measure around your hips, making sure that the tape measure is snug but not too tight.
4. Ensure that the tape measure is level all the way around your body.
5. Note the measurement where the ends of the tape measure meet.

To ensure accuracy, measure your hips twice and take the average of the two numbers that you get.

III. Method #2: Using a Caliper

A caliper is a tool used to measure the distance between two sides of an object. It can also be used to measure hip circumference. You can choose to use either a skinfold caliper or a digital caliper. Digital calipers are more precise but also more expensive. Follow these steps for accurate hip measurements with a caliper:

1. Remove any clothing from your waist and hips before measuring with a caliper.
2. Locate the widest part of your hips and press the caliper on it. The two prongs of the caliper should be perpendicular to your body.
3. Wait for the caliper to display the measurement.
4. Record the measurement and repeat for accuracy.

One of the disadvantages of using a caliper is that it can be uncomfortable or even painful for some individuals to use. Additionally, it can be difficult to use a caliper on yourself as you need to be able to reach and apply pressure on the hips while also reading the measurement display on the caliper.

IV. Method #3: Using a Body Fat Scale

Many bathroom scales now come with options to measure body fat percentage as well as weight. By using these scales, it is possible to find out the circumference of your hips quickly and easily. Follow these steps for proper use of a body fat scale for hip measurements:

1. Stand up straight on the scale, making sure your feet are touching the sensors on the scale.
2. Wait for the scale to display your weight and body fat percentage.
3. Take note of the hip measurement displayed on the scale.

It is important not to rely solely on body fat scales as they are not always completely accurate. Results can be affected by factors such as menstrual cycles, hydration levels, and body position on the scale.

V. Method #4: Using a Tailor’s Measuring Tape

A tailor’s measuring tape is a type of tape measure used by tailors to get more accurate body measurements. Unlike regular tape measures, it is flexible and typically includes both metric and imperial measurements. Follow these steps for accurate hip measurements with a tailor’s measuring tape:

1. Wrap the measuring tape around your hips, taking care to keep it parallel to the ground.
2. Make sure that the measuring tape is snug but not so tight that it compresses the skin.
3. Note the measurement where the ends of the measuring tape meet.
4. For accurate results, take multiple measurements and average them out.

A tailor’s measuring tape is ideal for getting precise measurements, but it requires a bit more skill and care to use correctly.

VI. Method #5: Using a Hip-to-Waist Ratio Calculator

Hip-to-waist ratio is a measurement that compares the circumference of your waist to your hips. This ratio is often used to determine an individual’s risk of developing certain diseases. Follow these steps to calculate your hip-to-waist ratio:

1. Measure your waist by wrapping a tape measure around your natural waistline, which is located above your belly button.
2. Measure your hips around the widest part of your hips.
3. Divide your hip measurement by your waist measurement to get your hip-to-waist ratio.
4. A healthy hip-to-waist ratio is considered to be 0.8 or less for women and 1.0 or less for men.

It is important to note that this method does not provide an exact hip measurement, but rather a comparison ratio between the hips and waist.

VII. Method #6: Using a 3D Body Scanner

A 3D body scanner is a sophisticated tool that takes precise measurements of the body, including hip circumference. Here’s how it works and what to expect when using a 3D body scanner:

1. Step into the 3D scanner, which takes multiple images of your body from different angles.
2. The software then generates a 3D model of your body and produces measurements, including hip circumference.

One of the benefits of using a 3D body scanner is that it’s highly accurate and quick. However, it can be expensive and not accessible to everyone.

VIII. Method #7: Using a Mirror and Pencil

This method provides an estimate of hip circumference and is a quick and easy way to measure your hips with minimal tools. Here’s how to measure your hips with a mirror and pencil:

1. Stand in front of a mirror, wearing tight-fitting clothing.
2. Hold a pencil horizontally at hip level across one side of your body, making sure it’s lined up with the widest part of your hips.
3. Mark the pencil’s position on your skin with a pen or marker.
4. Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between the two points.

Bear in mind that this method provides an estimate, and the accuracy depends on the quality of your measuring tape and steady marking.

IX. Conclusion

There are several methods available for measuring hip circumference, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your preferences and needs, you may choose to use a tailor’s measuring tape or a 3D body scanner for greater accuracy or a simpler method such as a mirror and pencil. Remember that taking multiple measurements is key to ensuring accuracy, and choose the method(s) you find most convenient to measure your hips.