To determine your exact height, measuring your height is the only method. The most common and accurate way to measure height is by using a measuring tape. However, if a measuring tape is not available, there may be other methods to measure height accurately, which can be found in the article by Debametulam.com.
Why is it necessary to measure height regularly?
Height is an important indicator of the body’s overall development, along with weight. Therefore, regularly measuring height can help individuals monitor their health and identify potential issues early on.
By measuring height regularly and comparing it to previous measurements, it can be determined if height-increasing strategies are effective. Based on the results, individuals can modify their diet, exercise routine, and rest time more effectively to achieve their desired height.
In addition, regular height measurements can indirectly support the monitoring of patients’ health. For instance, slower height development compared to previous measurements may indicate a deficiency in calcium or phosphorus, or even signs of ossification in growth cartilage.
Steps to take when measuring height
To obtain the most accurate measurement of height, the first step is to prepare a measuring tape. A tape measure is the most effective tool to use, but if not available, a horizontal bar can be utilized. If neither of these tools is accessible, a height-boosting tool can be improvised using items such as shoes, a sheet of paper, and a rope.
It is essential to choose a level surface to position the measuring tape. In addition to the floor, a wall with a flat surface should be selected to create an optimal reflection point. This preparatory step is crucial to ensure an accurate measurement of height.
Moreover, being properly prepared is crucial to ensure that the height measurement is accurate. If you are measuring your own height, sit at a comfortable height, straighten your back, position your feet in an X shape, and look straight ahead.
How do you know what height is considered standard or not?
The World Health Organization (WHO) publishes a height and weight chart by age that is regarded as the standard for monitoring the growth of children and adolescents. Therefore, after obtaining an accurate measurement of your height, you can refer to this chart to determine if your height falls within the standard range.
The most accurate method of measuring height currently available.
There are multiple ways to determine your height, but here are the top three most precise methods for measuring your height.
Measuring height with a measuring tape
The horizontal bar is considered the most accurate height measuring instrument due to its vertical height separating strip and horizontal sliding bar. To use it, follow these steps:
- Place the bar on a flat surface.
- Move the slider back to the starting point.
- Lie down on your back on the bar, with your neck, back, and heels aligned straight and looking forward.
- Adjust the slider until it just touches the top of your head and keep it in place.
- Read the height measurement on the slider.
If using a traditional measuring tape, simply measure the distance from the floor to the top of your head. With an electronic vertical bar, your height will be displayed on a small screen.
Another option is to use an integrated vertical ruler which not only accurately measures height, but also helps determine body weight.
Measuring your height with a tape measure:
Measuring your height with a tape measure at home is simple and convenient. Here are the steps to follow:
- Choose a flat surface, ideally near a doorway or corner.
- Lean against the wall and fix the tape measure at a position not lower than the left toe of your foot.
- Stand up straight and slowly adjust your posture. Move the tape horizontally across to the top of your head.
- Hold the tape in place with two fingers where it contacts the top of your head.
- The measurement obtained by placing two fingers together on the tape is your height.
However, if you want the most accurate results, it’s recommended to have someone assist you. Here are the steps:
- Stand against the wall and adjust your posture, looking straight ahead and tilting your chin down.
- Place a small box or ruler on your head, perpendicular to a pencil, and mark the contact points on the wall.
- Use a tape measure to measure the distance from the floor to the marked point, including your height.
Measuring your height using an improvised measuring tape
If you don’t have a standing ruler or measuring tape at home, you can still determine your height using an improvised measuring tape. It may take a few minutes, but it can be accurate. Here are the steps to create a temporary measuring tape using shoe size:
- Get a string and insert it through your shoe.
- Mark the length of your shoe along the string with a marker.
- Repeat this process until the length of the tape is 1m80.
- Pull the string straight and use the measuring tape to stick it to the wall.
To measure your height using the improvised measuring tape, follow these steps:
- Stand against the wall or beside the measuring tape.
- Straighten your back, with your heels forming a V-shape, and lean your back against the wall.
- Use the tape measure to determine the distance between the top of your head and the ceiling, as well as your height.
Tips for measuring height without a tape measure
If you don’t have a tape measure, there are several other ways to measure your height:
Measure your height using a ruler
Although it may take more time, using a suitable ruler to measure the distance from your foot to your head is the most precise method of determining your height without a tape measure. After marking the area you measured, record the number, and then add two measurements together to determine your overall height
Height measurement rulers can be printed on a piece of paper
You can search for images of varying sizes online, download them, and then print them. However, it’s important to check the percentage difference between the printed image and its actual size to ensure the most accurate measurement
Learn your height using an app on your phone
The impressive advancements in science and technology have made it possible for smartphones to include height measurement applications. This method is known to be quick and accurate – simply download the app, turn on your camera, take a picture of yourself, and the program will calculate and display your height.
If you don’t have a measuring tape, you can use a height chart, which can be attached to a wall using adhesive. You can usually find height charts in office supply stores or bookstores.
Things to remember when measuring height for the most accurate measurement
For an accurate height measurement, consider the following:
- Measure your height in the morning when your spine and joints are in a natural state, as this provides the most precise measurement.
- To ensure accurate measurement, stand straight with your body in a neutral position. Avoid standing with an arched back or relaxed feet.
- Remove any accessories that could affect your height, including shoes, hats, and caps. If you have piled-up hair, let it down before measuring your height.
These tips can help you measure your height accurately. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and engaging in healthy activities can promote height growth.