How to measure hips

Overview

Measuring your hips is a simple yet important process, often required when purchasing clothing, tracking body composition, or for general health awareness. The hip measurement refers to the circumference around the widest part of your hips and buttocks. Accurate hip measurements help ensure that garments fit properly, avoiding discomfort and the need for alterations.

Why Measure Your Hips?

There are several reasons why you might need to measure your hips:

• Clothing Fit: This is the most common reason. Pants, skirts, dresses, and even some shorts are sized based on hip circumference. Knowing your measurement ensures you select the correct size for a comfortable and flattering fit.
• Health and Fitness Tracking: For individuals focused on fitness or weight management, tracking hip measurements can be part of monitoring body composition changes. While weight is a common metric, waist-to-hip ratio is also an indicator of health risks.
• Medical Purposes: In some medical contexts, hip measurements might be taken as part of a physical examination or for fitting medical devices.
• Sewing and Tailoring: If you're a sewer or tailor, precise body measurements are essential for creating custom-fitted garments.

How to Measure Your Hips Accurately

Follow these steps for a precise hip measurement:

1. Gather Your Tools: You will need a flexible tape measure. A cloth tape measure, often used for sewing, is ideal as it conforms to your body's curves. Avoid using a metal tape measure, as it is stiff and difficult to use accurately on the body.
2. Stand Naturally: Stand up straight with your feet together. Avoid sucking in your stomach or puffing out your chest, as this will distort the measurement. Relax your body.
3. Locate the Fullest Part: Identify the widest circumference of your hips and buttocks. This is usually located around the top of your hip bones or the fullest part of your gluteal muscles.
4. Position the Tape Measure: Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. Ensure the tape is parallel to the floor all the way around your body. It's helpful to look in a mirror to check that the tape is level.
5. Ensure Proper Tension: The tape measure should be snug against your skin, but not tight. It should not dig into your skin or leave deep indentations. If you can easily slide your finger under the tape, it's likely too loose. If it's uncomfortable or difficult to move, it's too tight.
6. Read the Measurement: Once the tape is in the correct position and tension, read the measurement where the tape overlaps. For maximum accuracy, it's recommended to take the measurement at the end of a natural exhale. This accounts for slight variations in your body's position due to breathing.
7. Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement immediately to avoid forgetting it. Note whether the measurement is in inches or centimeters.

Tips for Accurate Hip Measurement

• Wear Minimal Clothing: For the most accurate measurement, wear lightweight clothing or undergarments. Measuring over thick clothing can add unnecessary bulk and lead to an inaccurate reading.
• Use a Mirror: A full-length mirror can help you ensure the tape measure is level around your hips.
• Measure Twice: To double-check your accuracy, take the measurement a second time. If the two measurements are significantly different, re-evaluate your technique.
• Understand Sizing Charts: Different clothing brands may have slightly different sizing charts. Always refer to the specific brand's sizing guide when purchasing clothing, using your hip measurement as a primary reference point.
• Consider Waist-to-Hip Ratio: For health-conscious individuals, calculating the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) can be informative. WHR is calculated by dividing your waist circumference by your hip circumference. A lower WHR generally indicates a healthier distribution of body fat.

By following these simple steps, you can confidently measure your hips and use that information effectively for clothing purchases, fitness tracking, or any other purpose.