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Introduction:
Anthropometry is the study of dimension, mass and proportion of the human body. In its simplest form anthropometry is represented by a measure.
Test Procedure:
- All measurements should be taken on the right side of the body using a tape measure, preferably tension regulated
- The tape should be place to the long axis of the body part to be measured
- The tape measure should be pulled to the correct tension around the limb/body part without pinching the skin
- Duplicate measurements should be taken at all sites and should be re-tested if measurements do not fall within 7 mm or 0.25 inches.
Sites:
- Abdomen (See Figure 1)
- Calf
- Forearm
- Hips
figure 1 - abdomen measurement
The measurement is taken with the subject standing relaxed and is a horizontal measure taken at the level of the umbilicus.
Hips/Buttocks:
The measurement is taken with the subject standing upright and naturally and is a horizontal measure taken at the level of the maximum circumference of the hips and buttocks.
figure 2 - hips/buttocks
Forearm
The measurement is taken with the subject standing upright, arms hanging downward, but slightly away from the trunk and with palms facing forward. The measure is taken perpendicular to the long axis of the forearm at the level of maximum circumference.
Upper Arm
The measurement is taken with the subject’s arm extended to the side of the body, perpendicular to the body. It is a horizontal measurement taken midway between the acromion and olecranon processes.
Waist
With the subject’s abdomen relaxed, a horizontal measurement is taken at the level of the narrowest part of the torso.
Thigh
The measurement is taken with the subject’s legs slightly apart. It is a horizontal measurement taken at the maximum circumference, just below thee gluteal fold.
Calf
The measurement is taken with the subject standing upright. It is a horizontal measurement taken at the maximum circumference between the knee and the ankle.
