Expert: Harry Hayfield - 3/8/2011

Question
Hi,
In bodybuilding, what is the proper way to measure chest size?  I seem to get some answers telling me its across the nipple line, and others telling me that its right under the armpits.  (When they said Steve Reeves had a 54 inch chest, I would like to know at which exact point on his chest the measurement was taken across)

Answer
To get the chest size, you need to make three measurements

1) Place the tape measure around the widest part of the chest ensuring that both nipples are covered (reading 1)
2) With the tape still in place, take a deep breath (reading 2) and then breathe out
3) With the tape still in place, take a deep breath, perform a front lat spread (reading 3) and then breathe out

Any of these measurements are quite valid, and it is purely personal opinion which one you list