Question

What is anthropometry? What are typical measures of anthropometry? What equipment is used? What does the equipment tell us? Why is anthropometry important to study? What is ergonomics?

Answer 1

1. Anthropometry deals with the study of human body measurements.

2. Systematic measurements of the size, shape and composition of the human body can be termed as various anthropometric measurements. Anthropometric measurements included weight, height, body mass index (BMI), body circumference (arm, waist, hip and calf), waist to hip ratio (WHR), elbow amplitude and knee-heel length.

3. Few of the equipments used for this study are

• Weight scale and Calibration weights: To measure the weight of the body

• Stadiometer: To measure height of the body

• Skinfold calipers: To assess the thickness of skinfold to predict the total amount of body fat.

• Tape measure: To measure upper arm length, upper leg length, waist circumference etc.

• Infantometer :measure recumbent length

4. Anthropometry is an important field of study. For example:

• Health care professionals rely on body measurements to evaluate a patient's overall health.
• Anthropometric measurement data for groups of people allows researchers to evaluate health trends and concerns in various populations.
• Sports coaches can use these measurements to monitor an athlete's body to ensure they stay in peak physical shape.

5.Ergonomics deals the study of efficiency of people in their working environment. So ergonomic design helps to create the most efficient workplace while ensuring comfort for the people within it.