How to Measure for Training Clothes

Five minutes with a flexible tape and a garment you already like can make online size selection easier. Keep a note of the garment, the measurement points and whether you measured flat or around the body.

Start with the right tools

Use a flexible measuring tape and a flat surface. A rigid ruler can help with a short flat width, but it is less useful for body circumferences. Keep the clothing smooth without stretching it, and measure in one unit before converting.

Measure a top

Lay the top flat and straighten the side seams. Measure chest width from underarm to underarm. If the product table lists chest circumference, double a flat comparison width to estimate the corresponding garment circumference. Measure body length from the top of the shoulder next to the neckline to the hem.

For a set-in sleeve, measure from the shoulder seam to the cuff. A raglan sleeve begins closer to the neckline, so its listed sleeve length can be longer even when the overall fit is similar. Use a comparable sleeve shape and check the product table’s labels.

Measure pants or shorts

Fasten the waistband as you normally would and lay it flat. Measure straight across the relaxed waistband. Double that flat width only when you need to compare it with a waist circumference. For an elastic waistband, do not stretch unless the product explicitly gives a stretched range.

Measure across the fullest part of the hip area and note that this is a flat width. Measure overall length from the top of the waistband to the hem along the outside edge. Measure inseam separately from the crotch seam down the inside of the leg. These two length measurements are not interchangeable.

Take body measurements separately

Stand naturally. Keep the tape level around your chest, waist and hips, and avoid pulling it tight. Have someone help with hard-to-reach measurements if possible. Body numbers show your starting point; clothing needs additional room according to its intended cut.

Convert once, then compare

One inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters. Divide centimeters by 2.54 to obtain inches. For example, a 76 cm waist circumference is about 29.9 inches. Rounded values may differ slightly, so use the original centimeter value if you are comparing very close options.

Put the numbers to work

Compare your notes with the individual style’s reference. Do not carry a label size from one product straight into another. Consider the stated fit and any manual-measurement tolerance. A weight-based reference is only a guide; chest, waist, hip and preferred room can still lead to a different choice.

For more help, visit Size & Fit or contact Minden Motion with your measurements and the product name.