anthropometer

An anthropometer is a manual measuring instrument used in physical anthropology and related fields to determine linear dimensions of the human body. It consists of a rigid frame with calibrated scales and sliding pointers or calipers that can be positioned to touch standardized anatomical landmarks, allowing measurement of distances between points on the body.

The instrument is used in a standardized manner. The subject is usually positioned in a neutral stance with minimal movement, and the operator identifies reference landmarks such as the tops of the shoulders, the hip bones, the knees, and other points depending on the required measurements. Readings are taken from the scales and recorded as numerical values. Variants of the anthropometer may include additional bars or arms to accommodate different measurement sets and to improve precision.

Measurements typically gathered with an anthropometer include upper and lower limb lengths (for example, lengths of the arm and leg segments), trunk and torso lengths, and transverse or depth dimensions such as shoulder breadth or chest depth. In some applications, a vertical rod component allows recording of stature, though height is usually measured with a dedicated stadiometer. The anthropometer is mainly used to assess body proportions, growth patterns, and variations across populations, sexes, ages, or ethnic groups.

Standardization and reliability are important considerations. Protocols specify landmark definitions, body posture, and multiple measurements to reduce error. Although modern methods such as 3D body scanning and photogrammetry have reduced reliance on fixed instruments, anthropometers remain a foundational tool in traditional anthropometric data collection and in teaching contexts.