How to measure biceps volume - this question is asked by many novice bodybuilders. In fact, it is not so difficult if you know some of the nuances. It is true that what many understand by the concept of “biceps volume” is in fact only the length of its circumference. It is almost impossible to calculate the actual volume at home and without special knowledge of mathematics. But, nevertheless, we will conditionally call this parameter exactly that, because this is customary in the bodybuilding society.
What is biceps
The biceps is the biceps brachialis muscle, which is located between the scapula and the radius. It is involved in flexion of the shoulder and forearm. It is one of the most noticeable on the human body. Bodybuilders give her special attention, and through hard training, can achieve a significant increase in this muscle. For many bodybuilders, the size of these “balls” is fundamentally important and is an indicator of a certain “coolness” and pride. A significant and noticeable increase in their size is achieved through long, hard training, which testifies to the dedicated work and willpower of bodybuilders.
Why is the circumference of the biceps brachii muscle measured?
Jocks know that measuring their biceps, in some cases, is simply necessary in order to find out whether they are following the training technology correctly. Here are the main goals that bodybuilders pursue when measuring “cans”:
- Find out if you are using the correct exercise technique to build muscle.
- The possible genetic potential of the biceps is calculated.
- Biceps muscle circumference is closely related to overall anthropometry.
- Calculation of general body proportions. There is a special calculator to calculate them.
- Determination of your optimal weight using a special formula.
- For a sense of self-confidence and taking into account your achievements.
The better to measure
It is best to use a regular tape centimeter as a measuring tool. Sometimes it is also called “meter”, but in the future we will use the name “centimeter”, since it is more common. You can, of course, take a tape measure, but it is not so soft and flexible, and will break.
So, if you want to correctly measure the volume of your biceps, it is still better to arm yourself with a tape measure. You can use a rope (thread), and then apply the size to a tape measure or ruler. However, here it is as convenient for anyone.
Measuring process
To measure the volume of your biceps and make the most accurate calculations, it is advisable to have an assistant in this matter. Although, you can do it yourself. Measurements should be taken correctly “cold” (bodybuilding jargon), so that at least two hours have passed since the last workout or exercise and the muscles have time to “cool down”. You need to take measurements twice: with your arm tense and with your arm relaxed. The algorithm of actions is as follows:
Measurement for a tense hand, using a centimeter
- Bend your arm at the elbow joint.
- Turn your hand towards your head.
- Place your hand parallel to the floor.
- Tense your hand.
- Place the beginning of the tape (from zero) on the point of the hand on top that turns out to be the highest.
- Perpendicular to the floor, wrap it around your hand and close the circle at the same reference point.
- Record the numerical value - this is your biceps muscle circumference with a tense arm.
Some take measurements in which the ruler tape is placed slightly obliquely, at the highest and lowest points of the hand.
Relaxed hand measurements
- Align your arm along your body.
- Relax your hand.
- Complete the penultimate item in the above list, only not perpendicular, but parallel to the floor.
- Record the girth value with your arm relaxed.
Optimal biceps sizes depending on age
- From 33.2 cm to 33.4 cm – optimal for men from 20 to 30 years old.
- From 33.5 to 34.8 – from 30 to 40 years.
- From 34.9 to 34.6 is the optimal girth for men 40-50 years old. During this period, there is usually a decrease in muscle mass.
- From 34.5 to 34.2 is the norm, at the age of 50 to 60 years.
By measuring the girth of your biceps brachii muscles, you can determine whether your weight is "right" for you or not. To do this, you need to divide your body weight by the circumference of the biceps.
- A value of two or more indicates that your weight is not “ideal” for you and there is a reason to lose weight.
- If it’s a little less than two, then your weight is normal.
- If it’s less than one and a half, then you should take care of gaining body weight.
In conclusion, we will only add that by doing bodybuilding, visiting the gym and using various exercise machines, you, with a certain diligence and hard work, will definitely increase your muscle mass, including “cans”. And you will look no worse than Arnold Schwarzenegger once did. So go ahead and good luck in your sport.
Video: Measuring the girth of the biceps correctly
This is to use a certain scheme for its manufacture. When sewing, it is imperative to take measurements correctly. To sew any item, you need to be able to take measurements correctly so that the result is a product that will fit perfectly on your figure.
It is better to take measurements when you are wearing a T-shirt and tights, allowing the measuring tape to easily slide over your figure, without tightening your body, but also not allowing the tape to hang loosely.
We must remember that there are basic dimensions, and there are additional ones. Basic measurements are used to construct most basic patterns, but sometimes patterns are so intricate that a few extra measurements are needed, as you can learn from the pattern description. 
1. Chest circumference (OG)
We take measurements along the protruding points of the chest around the figure.
2. Waist circumference (OT)
We measure at the narrowest point in the waist area around the body.
3. Hip circumference (H)
We measure at the most convex points of the buttocks.
Some women experience the “golife effect.” In this case, it is recommended to duplicate the measurement. To do this, we measure the volume along the protruding lines of the “golifa” just below the measurement of the girth of the buttocks.
4. Chest height (HH) - these are the points of visual transition from the neck to the shoulder to the most protruding point on the chest.
5. Front length (accident)- this is the point in front of the visual transition of the neck to the shoulder to the waist through the most protruding point of the chest.
6. Product length (DI) - measurement from the waist to the length you need in the finished product.
7. Back length (DTS)
We find the seventh cervical spine and measure from this place to the waist line, so as not to make a mistake with the place at the waist, you need to tie a cord at the waist line.
8. Back width (ShS)
We measure the width of the back horizontally through the center of the shoulder blades along the straightened back.
9. Shoulder width (SH)
We find the most horizontal points on the shoulders and measure the width from one shoulder to the other.
10. Shoulder length (Lpl)
We measure from the base of the neck to the end of the shoulder.
11. Sleeve length (DR)
We measure from the end of the shoulder along the arm bent at the elbow to the wrist.
12. Arm circumference - upper part(OR)
We measure horizontally the circumference (width) of the arm - the widest upper part.
13.Wrist circumference (OZ)
We measure horizontally the circumference (width) of the arm at the wrist.
14. Neck circumference (ОШ)
We measure the circumference around the base of the neck.
15. Leg length - outer side. This measurement is also called stride length (LS)
We measure along the outside of the leg from the waist to the floor.
16.Leg length - inner side
We measure from the groin to the floor along the inside of the leg.
The difference between 15 and 16 measurements gives us the seat height measurement ( Sun), which will be useful for those who decide to sew their own trousers or shorts.
The seat height can also be measured by sitting up straight and measuring from your waist to the surface on which you are sitting. If these two indicators turn out to be unequal, then take the average between them to construct a pattern.
17. Thigh height (WB)
We measure from the waist line to the hip line along the outside of the thigh.
A formula is usually used to calculate armhole depth, but this measurement can also be measured.
18. Armhole depth (GPr)
You need to take a strip of paper and hold it under the back of your arm, after which you can measure the depth of the armhole - this is the distance from the 7th cervical vertebra to the strip of paper you are holding.
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- To create a pattern for a dress, skirt or trousers, measurements must be taken using the underwear. When trying on, wear the underwear with which you intend to wear the product. This is important because different shape, for example, can change the height and girth of the chest.
- All measurements are taken on the most developed part of the body. For right-handers, measurements are taken on the right side, for left-handers - on the left.
- When taking measurements, you need to stand straight, without tension, in a position familiar to your body. It is quite difficult to take quality measurements of yourself. When the position of the body changes, its size also changes. A possible way out of the situation: take a product that fits you very well and take measurements from it.
- Mark the natural waist level with an elastic band or thin cord - this will simplify the task.
- Since human body symmetrically, usually the pattern is built only to the middle of the figure. For ease of use, some measurements are recorded in half size. These measurements include the semi-circumference of the neck, chest, waist and hips, back width, width and center of the chest. The remaining dimensions are recorded and used in full.
- IN different countries Pattern making systems and measuring methods vary slightly. And depending on the school, the names of the measurements may vary within one country. If you are not sure what size we are talking about, read the description. This way you can quickly find a match.
Basic figure measurements
Shoulder measurements
These measurements will be needed if you want to sew a dress, blouse, jacket, or coat.
Measurements 1–10 are recorded and used in half size, the rest - in full.
- Half neck circumference- measured at the base of the neck. The tape needs to be closed in the jugular cavity.
- Half chest girth first- the tape runs horizontally from behind along the protruding points of the shoulder blades, and from the front - above the chest.
- Half chest girth second- the measuring tape goes from the back as in the previous version, from the front it goes along the most protruding points of the chest. It is better to remove the first and second half-circumferences of the chest one after another, without changing the position of the tape on the back. Maintain a natural posture, lower your arms down, but do not pinch the tape in your armpits.
- Half chest girth third- the tape runs around the body strictly horizontally, in front - along the most protruding points of the chest, in the back - maintaining a horizontal line. This measurement is the mass production size that suits you.
- Half waist- measured by an auxiliary tape or elastic band located in the narrowest part of the figure. Do not try to create a waist yourself by tightening the cord. You are beautiful, regardless of size, and the correct number will help the product fit well.
- Half hip circumference- the tape goes horizontally around the figure, at the back - along the most protruding points of the buttocks, at the front - taking into account the protrusion of the abdomen.
- Chest width first- measured horizontally between the front corners of the armpits, above the chest.
- Chest width second- the measuring tape is applied horizontally between the front corners of the armpits through the most protruding points of the mammary glands.
- Center of the chest- measured between the most protruding points of the chest. This size, like the half-bust circumference, varies depending on the shape and tightness of the bra you are wearing.
- Back width- measured along the shoulder blades between the back corners of the armpits.
- Front Waist Length- measured from the highest point of the estimated shoulder seam at the base of the neck to the waist line in front. The tape is placed vertically along the figure. To find the highest point of the shoulder seam, wear a thin jersey tank top. Where the shoulder seam meets the neckline is the right point. You can find it before starting measurements, mark it with chalk, and remove the T-shirt.
- Chest height- the distance from the highest point of the shoulder seam to the most protruding point of the chest.
- Back waist length first- measured from the seventh cervical vertebra to the waist line. If you feel the base of the neck at the back, you will find a protruding vertebra. That's what you need.
- Back waist length second- measured from the highest point of the estimated shoulder seam at the base of the neck to the waistline at the back. The tape is positioned vertically, following the curves of the figure.
- Back armhole height- the distance from the highest point of the shoulder seam to an imaginary horizontal line drawn from the rear corner of the armpit.
- Shoulder height oblique- measured from the end point of the shoulder to the point where the spine intersects with the waist line. The end point of the shoulder can be found using a thin knitted tank top with a sleeve. The place where the shoulder seam enters the sleeve seam is the point we need. Since you marked the waist with an elastic band or tape, finding the intersection of the waist line and the spine should be easy.
- Shoulder width- the distance from the highest point of the shoulder seam at the base of the neck to the end shoulder point.
- Sleeve length- measured from the end shoulder point to the desired length. The arm should be in a natural position, slightly bent at the elbow.
- Shoulder circumference- the tape runs strictly horizontally at the widest point of the shoulder.
- Wrist circumference- measured above the hand along the protruding bones.
- Product length- measured from the seventh cervical vertebra to the desired length.
Skirt measurements
The number of measurements needed for a skirt depends on its silhouette. For a circle skirt, you only need the length of the product and the half-waist circumference. To sew a pencil skirt, you also need to measure the half-circumference of your hips. The length of the skirt is measured from the waist line to side seam to the desired level.
Measurements for trousers
In addition to the half-girth of the waist and hips, you will need a few more measurements to build the trousers.
- Seat height- measured on a seated figure from the waist line along the side seam to the chair. For accurate measurements, the seating surface must be hard.
- Knee height- measured standing from the waist line along the side seam to the middle of the kneecap.
- Width at knee- especially important for tight trousers. The tape is placed around the bent knee.
- Trouser width at the bottom- selected according to the model. If you are going to sew tight trousers, then the width of the trousers at the bottom will be equal to the circumference of the foot through the heel.
- Pants length- measured standing from the waist line along the side seam to the desired length. In tight trousers, the length is taken to the bone. In medium or wide ones - up to the middle of the heel with which you will wear these trousers.
When creating a pattern, you need to remember that the measurements taken from the figure are not equal to the dimensions of the parts. When constructing drawings, an allowance for freedom of fit is added to the measurements. This is not a constant value. It depends on the size of the figure, the properties of the fabric, the purpose and silhouette of the product, as well as fashion.
How to take measurements? To sew any clothes, in most cases you will need a pattern. And in order to build it or correctly determine the size finished pattern in the magazine, you need to take the measurements correctly.
We will tell you in detail how to take measurements for women's clothing and we’ll help you choose extensions to fit.
Basic rules
First of all, we would like to draw your attention to the fact that not all measurements can be taken alone. An assistant is needed to measure the back and sleeves. Here are a few more rules that must be followed to take accurate measurements:
- Wear the exact underwear (or the same type of underwear) that you will wear with finished product. Adding volume to a bra or tights will make a big difference to your figure!
- Tie a ribbon or braid around your waist.
- Take a natural pose. Lower your arms down, don't bend your legs.
- For greater accuracy, take each measurement several times and compare the results.
- The measuring tape should fit snugly, but not tightly. Try to place it horizontally.
- To find the seventh cervical vertebra tilt your head strongly down and feel the first bump where the neck meets the torso. Place a mark on your clothing or body.
- Also mark the shoulder point - the place where the arm joins the torso, on clothing or on the body.
Now let's find out how to correctly take each measurement in order to create a pattern for women's clothing. In most magazines or books to indicate taken measurements the following abbreviations are used: the first capital letter for the type of measurement, small letters for the place where this measurement was made. So, the letter “B” stands for height, “D” for length, “O” for girth, and “W” for width.
Let's start with the measurements of length and height, and the very first of them Overall product length or “Di”. In order to measure it correctly, you first need to decide how long your model should be. Then apply the edge of the centimeter to a point on the back at the base of the neck (7th cervical vertebra, hereinafter in the text “point 7”) and lower it along the spine to the waist, and then down to the intended length of the model.
If you are sewing a skirt, start measuring from the waist level to the length of the model, also along the back.
If you are sewing trousers, you will need to take several measurements:
Front length (chipboard)– start measuring from a point at the waist, then lower the centimeter along the protruding part of the abdomen and continue to the floor.
Side Length (DSB)– start measuring from a point at the waist, then lower the centimeter along the protruding part of the thigh and continue to the floor.
Back length (Dsz)– start measuring from a point at the waist, then lower the centimeter along the protruding part of the buttocks and continue to the floor.
Knee Length (Dtk)– start measuring from the point at the waist, then lower the centimeter to the middle of the knee; to save time, this measurement is recorded in parallel with the DSB measurement.
Step Length (Lw)– start measuring along the inside of the leg, from the groin and continue to the floor level.
Back length to waist (Dst or Ds)- start measuring from point 7 and end at the waist line. Make sure that the centimeter lies exactly along the line of the spine and touches the back.
Front length to waist (Dpt or Dp)- start measuring from a point located at the base of the neck on the shoulder line (then point 1), then lower the centimeter to the protruding point of the chest and continue to the waist line.
Shoulder Length (Dp)- start measuring from point 1 and end at the starting point of the hand (then point 2).
Sleeve length (Dr)- start measuring from point 2, move the centimeter along the outside of the hand (towards the little finger) and end at the line of the wrist. The arm should be slightly bent at the elbow. For ¾ sleeves, end measurement at elbow level (DRL). If the arm is extended and lowered, end the measurement at the level of the beginning of the thumb.
Chest Height (Vg)- start measuring from point 1 and end at the most protruding point of the chest.
Front shoulder height (Vp or Vpp)- start measuring from point 2 and end at the most protruding point of the chest.
Height of the shoulder of the back oblique (Vpk)– start measuring from point 2 and end in the middle of the back along the waist line (the junction of the lines of the spine and waist).
Height (depth) of the armhole (Gp or Gpr)– You will need a long paper tape approximately 3cm wide. Hold it under your hands. Start measuring from point 7 and end at the level of the top edge of the tape.
Hips Height (Wb)– take measurements from the side, starting from the waist line and ending at the hip line.
Seat height (Sun)– Sit on a hard and level surface. Take measurements from the back, starting from the waistline, and ending at seat level.
Now let's look at the Width measurements.
Back Width (Shs)– take measurements at the level of the shoulder blades (in the center). Hold the tape measure horizontally and do not place it under your armpits!
Shoulder width (W)– take measurements between the extreme shoulder points (points 2 on each side). Keep the tape measure horizontal!
Chest Width(W) or Center of the chest (CG)– take the measurement between the protruding points of the chest. Keep the tape measure horizontal!
Let's move on to the Circumference or Girth measurements. They are often written and used in half size: Half-Girth and Half-Circle. In abbreviated entries, the combination “By” is then used.
Chest circumference (Og or Og2)– take the measurement along the protruding points of the chest, the centimeter should fit tightly around the body.
Circumference above the chest and below the chest (Og1 and Og3)– take the measurement above and below the chest, the centimeter should fit tightly around the body.
Waist Circumference (From)– take the measurement along the intended waist line, the centimeter should fit tightly around the body.
Hip Circumference (About)– take measurements at the most protruding points of the buttocks. If you need to take into account the protruding belly, attach a ruler to it vertically and take measurements taking into account this protrusion.
Thigh Circumference (Lunch)– take the measurement at the widest point of the leg, just below the subgluteal fold.
Leg circumference (HE)– take the measurement 10-15 cm above the knee.
Knee circumference (approx)– measure around the knee. For medium-width trousers, the leg should be bent, and for narrow trousers, the leg should be straightened.
Calf circumference (Oi)– take the measurement in the widest part of the calf muscle
Neck circumference (Osh)– take the measurement around the base of the neck, in front – above the jugular cavity.
Wrist circumference (Oz)- measure around the base of the brush.
Shoulder circumference (Op)- measure around the widest part of the arm (at the top, lowering the arm down).
Loose Fit Increases
If you make the pattern yourself, you will need to take into account allowances for a loose fit. These are not constant values; each type of clothing has its own increase, which also depends on what kind of silhouette you want to get: adjoined, free or semi-adjacent.
We offer you a table of loose fit increases for all three silhouettes.
Gloves are not always a noticeable accessory. However, you should not pay little attention to their choice. If you choose the wrong size, you will have to throw away or give the gloves to someone else. Therefore, when choosing a glove in a store or online, you need to correctly determine the size of your hand.
How to determine the hand size for a glove?
When marking gloves, manufacturers are guided by the circumference of the buyer's palm. Let's figure out how to measure the circumference of the palm:
1. Take a measuring tape and wrap your dominant hand as shown in the picture. (Leading hand: right-handed - right, left-handed - left). Don't wrap thumb, otherwise the measurements will be incorrect!
2. Slightly squeeze your hand into your palm. This is done so that the purchased gloves bend and unbend freely.
3. Record the data obtained and compare it with the tables below.
- Table
How to find out your hand size for gloves? You don't need any special equipment for this. If you don't have a centimeter ruler at home, you can use a regular one. Measure your arm on each side, add up the values and round up the result.
Most often, buyers do not know by what standards manufacturers sew goods. For proper selection of gloves for winter season, we recommend using size correspondence tables. With their help, you can easily determine the size of gloves for men, women and children.
