Biomechanics & Kinesiology

Kinanthropometry

Kinanthropometry is defined as “the study of human size, shape, proportion, composition, maturation, and gross function, in order to understand growth, exercise, performance, and nutrition”. It is similar to the mechanistic approach to human motion, i.e. anthropometry. However, the study of anthropometry is confined to width, length and girth measurements, rather than changes that occur in the human physique as a result of physical training. Somatotyping provides classification of the human body into three basic types: ectomorph, mesomorph and endomorph. Therefore, through the application of kinanthropometry together with somatotyping in the study of the human physique, the clothing industry can improve traditional sizing systems by means of reference to the structure and function of the human body.