Identify and count the syllables of a poem's line. The syllables in each line of a poem determine the rhythm and, thus, the meter. Find a poem you like, and read it -- either out loud or to yourself. Every time you identify a syllable, tap your foot and count. You should start to feel the rhythm of the poem emerge.
Pay attention to the stressed and unstressed syllables in each line. The stressed syllables are easily identifiable as those that are emphasized when read. Most often, the poem will be made up of unstressed and stressed syllable couplings, known as feet. There are many different combinations you may spot, and this determines the type of foot used in the poem. For example, a pattern of unstressed-stressed syllables is known as an iambic foot. Tap the rhythm with your foot again, this time putting strength into each stressed syllable.
Count the feet to establish the meter of the poem. The meter of any poem is also determined by the amount of feet in each line, not just the type. If the line of poetry you are reading is "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day," you can tell that it contains iambic feet -- pairings of unstressed and stressed syllables. You should also be able to count the feet. In this particular line, five feet are present, making the meter of the line an "iambic pentameter."