Estimation of smimmers anthropometric parameters and surface areas in real swimming conditions

The main aim of this study was to propose and to test a reliable method allowing us to obtain data both from static numeric images and numeric video images taken in real swimming conditions and using appropriate computer procedure. Based on these images it is possible to estimate the swimmer's anthropometric parameters and the projected frontal surface (PFS) during swimming. Measurements of sportsmen anthropometric parameters, including swimmers, are usually carried out in a static anatomic position using standard anthropometric method. In the present study, this common method is compared with a new approach which enables us to carry out the anthropometric measurements using numeric images collected both in static and in real swimming conditions. This method offers two advantages: the results are obtained in real dynamic conditions and the measurements are characterized by a high precision and repeatability. The proposed measurement approach is suitable also for other applications in the field of biomechanics.