Mid-Thigh Girth
Girths are circumference measures at standard anatomical sites around the body. The Mid-Thigh Girth measurement is a circumference measure around the middle of the thigh. See the list of girth measurement locations.
purpose: To measure the circumference of the thigh, as a measure of the underlying musculature and adipose tissue. Girth measurements combined with skinfold measurements can give a clearer picture of changes in tissue composition and distribution of muscle and fat.
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.
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Prepare forms and record basic anthropometric information such as age, height, body weight, gender. See more details of pre-test procedures.
procedure: First mark the site to be measured. This girth measurement is usually taken on the right side of the body. The subject stands erect with their weight evenly distributed on both feet and legs slightly parted. The circumference
measure is taken at the level of the mid-point on the lateral
(outer side) surface of the thigh, midway between the trochanterion (top of the thigh bone, femur) and tibiale laterale (top of the tibia bone). When recording,
you need to make sure the tape is not too tight or too loose,
is lying flat on the skin, and the tape held horizontal.
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, and ease of self testing
comments: clothing over the site should be removed if possible to make sure the measuring tape is positioned correctly and that the correct circumference is determined. It may help to have the subject stand on a box to make the measurement easier.
Similar Tests
- See the similar gluteal 'upper thigh' girth measure.
- hip girth
- calf girth
Related Pages
- General description of taking girth measurements, and links to other girth measures.
- Using MyoTape for girth measurement.
- A discussion about Body Size Testing
- Other anthropometric tests
- Videos of Anthropometric Tests
Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.
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