10 Simple Steps to Measure Hips for Women

Published 1 August 2026

Measuring your hips accurately is crucial for determining your body shape, selecting the right clothing size, and tracking body composition changes. Whether you're a woman looking to enhance your wardrobe or a fitness enthusiast monitoring your progress, understanding the proper technique for measuring your hips is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of hip measurement, providing you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and common mistakes to avoid.

To begin, it's imperative to gather the necessary tools. You'll need a flexible measuring tape, preferably one designed specifically for measuring the body. Ensure it's not too tight or too loose, as this could affect the accuracy of your measurement. Additionally, wear form-fitting clothing or underwear that won't add bulk or alter the natural contour of your body.

Once you're prepared, follow these steps to measure your hips accurately: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, ensuring your weight is evenly distributed. Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your hips, which is typically about 7-9 inches below your natural waistline. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and snug but not constricting. Note down the measurement to the nearest quarter inch. Remember, hip measurements can fluctuate slightly depending on your posture and muscle development, so it's recommended to take multiple measurements and use the average to ensure accuracy.

Measuring the Hips Using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)

Understanding BIA

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a technique that uses electrical signals to measure body composition. It involves sending a low-frequency electrical current through the body and measuring the resistance it encounters. As different tissues have different levels of resistance, BIA can estimate the percentage of body fat, muscle mass, and water in the body.

Preparing for BIA

Before undergoing BIA, it is essential to ensure accurate results. Here's how to prepare:

* Avoid eating or drinking for 3-4 hours before the test.

Performing the BIA Measurement

* Lie on a table or bed with your arms and legs extended.

Interpreting BIA Results

How To Measure Hips Women

To measure your hips, you will need a flexible measuring tape. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your weight evenly distributed. Wrap the measuring tape around your hips at the widest point, which is typically around 7-9 inches below your natural waistline. The tape should be snug but not too tight. Read the measurement where the tape meets itself at the front of your body.

If you are having trouble finding your natural waistline, you can use the following tips:

• Stand up straight with your shoulders relaxed.
• Place your hands on your hips, with your thumbs in front and your fingers in back.
• Bend forward at the waist, keeping your back straight.
• The crease that forms at the top of your back is your natural waistline.

Once you have found your natural waistline, you can measure your hips by following the steps above. It is important to take your measurements accurately, as this will help you determine the correct size of clothing and accessories.

People Also Ask:

How do I measure my hips without a measuring tape?

If you do not have a flexible measuring tape, you can use a string or piece of yarn to measure your hips. Wrap the string around your hips at the widest point and mark the spot where the string meets itself. Then, use a ruler or yardstick to measure the length of the string. This will give you your hip measurement.

What is the average hip measurement for women?

The average hip measurement for women is 38 inches. However, hip measurements can vary significantly from person to person. Some women may have naturally wider hips than others.

What does it mean if I have wide hips?

Having wide hips is often a sign that you have a pear-shaped body type. This means that your hips are wider than your shoulders and your waist is narrower. Pear-shaped body types are often associated with fertility and good health.