Anthropometric Measures of Elite Indian Archer: Identification of Features for Talent Development

Abstract

Introduction: The motive of this study was to determine anthropometric characteristics which could institute the type of physique and body type required to excel in archery. Methods: 33 elite Indian archers, both men and women, from National and International levels, were studied. Demographic information using the interview method and anthropometric measurements was collected from the players. Various indices were further calculated and then correlated with the players’ performance in 70m and 50m events using recurve and compound bow, respectively, with the help of Pearson correlation. Results: The average age of the Indian Archers was 18.3±1.3 years. The average height and weight of the Archers were 167.2 cm (± 6.9) and 63.2kg (± 10.2). The average BMI of the Archers was 22.5 (± 3.1 kg/m2). Statistically, a positive correlation was seen between the individual score and the poundage of the bow used. Poundage, in turn, correlated with the hand index, foot index, and robusticity. Conclusion: The present study has focused on all possible morphological parameters required to excel in archery, and the results depict that all individuals had long arms, narrow chests, and long hands, which added to their advantage in the game. This is also the first scientific study that has focused on the morphological parameters required for excelling in archery.