Fitness Testing

Wrist Girth

aim: to measure the circumference of the wrist, as one of the many measurements of body size.
equipment required: flexible metal tape measure and pen suitable for marking the skin. If a plastic or cloth tape is used, it should be checked regularly against a metal tape as they may stretch over time.
description / procedure: This girth measurement is usually taken on the right arm, at a point just distal (away from the body) to the styloid processes. This is usually the minimum circumference in this region, though the tape should be moved around to make sure you have recorded the minimum girth measurement. When recording, you need to make sure the tape is not too tight or too loose, and is lying flat on the skin.

reliability: Factors that may affect reliability include changes to the testing personnel, constant and even tension on the tape, and correct landmarking (finding the correct anatomical site for measurement).

advantages: low costs involved in the testing procedure.
comments: Girth measurements combined with skinfold measurements can give a clearer picture of changes in tissue composition and distribution of muscle and fat.