Kinanthropometric Predictors of Event-Specific Performance in Track and Field Athletes

Abstract

Purpose: Kinanthropometry, the scientific measurement of human body size, shape, proportion, and composition, plays a critical role in understanding athletic performance. This narrative review aims to explore the current literature on kinanthropometric predictors of event-specific performance in track and field athletes. The review focuses on identifying key physical attributes contributing to success in different events, highlighting the importance of tailored training and talent identification strategies. Methods: A structured literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using combinations of keywords: “kinanthropometry,” “track and field,” “event-specific performance,” “bodycomposition,” “limb girths,” and “anthropometric predictors.” Approximately 45 peer-reviewed studies were included that investigated the relationship between kinanthropometric variables and performance in specific track and field events across age groups, genders, and competitive levels. Study quality was assessed using PRISMA guidelines and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Publication bias was evaluated by examining funnel plots and calculating Egger’s test where applicable. Results: The review identified three primary kinanthropometric domains relevant to track and field performance: body composition (body mass index, body fat percentage, lean body mass), skeletal structure (height, limb lengths), and limb girths. Throwing events consistently favored athletes with higher body mass, greater lean mass, and larger upper limb girths. Distance running events showed stronger correlations with lower body fat percentages and longer limb lengths. Sprinting and jumping events were significantly predicted by both lower and upper limb girths, reflecting the importance of muscle cross-sectional area and explosive strength. Despite these findings, research heterogeneity and inconsistent measurement protocols limit the comparability of results across studies. Conclusions: This narrative review highlights that event-specific kinanthropometric characteristics are essential for optimizing track and field performance. The findings have practical implications for athlete selection, training design, and performance monitoring. There is a pressing need for standardized measurement protocols, larger and more diverse sample sizes, and comprehensive multivariate analyses. Future research should explore under-represented events and populations, integrating kinanthropometric profiling into athlete development and talent identification programs.