Weighing scales, close-up of dial, close-up

Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images

It is easy to read your weight on a digital scale, but the older models of physician's scales, called "beam balance scales," require you to exercise a piddling piece of work and a tiny bit of math. These scales work on the lever principle. The beam of the balance is fixed on a pivot. You motion weights along one side of the beam until information technology balances and is level. When the axle is level, the position of the weights shows your weight.

Move all the weights to aught. This will be on the left side of the marked bar they are fastened to. Exist sure they are seated in a slot. This ensures they are stable and will not move.

Step onto the scale gently. Stand notwithstanding with your weight distributed evenly on both feet. The end of the beam at the far left of the scale should rising to the top of its frame. It will usually hit the tiptop with a singled-out crash-land.

Motility the large sliding weight to the right from notch to notch. The end of the axle, sticking out on the left side of the calibration, will lower as you movement the weight. Stop moving the weight when it falls below the horizontal mark in the eye of its frame. Then motion the big weight back to the adjacent notch on the left. The beam should again exist above the mark.

Move the small sliding weight slowly to the right until the stop of the remainder beam is level with the marking on the frame. The beam should be level and counterbalanced. When you movement, the axle volition move slightly above and below the level mark.

Add the number of the big weight to the number of the small weight to determine your weight. For example, if the large weight is on 150 pounds and the small-scale weight is on 36 pounds, your weight is 186 pounds.

Tip

Endeavor to weigh yourself at the aforementioned of solar day. Your weight can fluctuate during the day.

If yous observe small fluctuations in your weight discouraging, weigh yourself but once or twice a week.