Anthropometry of Olympic Athletes in 1932
Following dramatic improvements in the Japanese swimmers since the previous Olympics in 1928, pioneering swimming scientist Thomas K. Cureton, Jr., undertook anthropometric studies of USA and Japanese swimmers. Cureton was Professor of Applied Physics and Animal Mechanics, Director of Aquatics and Coach of Swimming at Springfield College.
Data was collected after the 1932 Olympics from 17 athletes of the USA Olympic swimming squad, and four of the Japanese team. 25 different tests were conducted, covering the basic areas of mental attitude, stroke mechanics, organic condition (heart, lungs, blood) and structural aptitude.
The anthropometrical measurements included: height, weight, adipose tissue, area of forearm and hand paddle, area of foreleg and foot, arm length, leg length, chest girth and hip girth.
Bibliography
- CURETON, T.K., "Observations and Tests of Swimming at the Olympic Games, 1932, at Los Angeles", Beach and Pool, 7: 214 (Aug,, 1933);
- Cureton, T. K. 1930 & 1932. Master's thesis, 1930, Springfield College, and "Observations and Tests of Swimming at the 1932 Olympic Games. "Journal of Physical Education, March, 1933
Related Pages
- Anthropometry at the Olympics
- Sport Specific Anthropometry
- Science and the Olympics
- Olympics Anthropology Days
- about the 1932 LA Olympics
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