Navigating Anthropometric Assessment in Sports Settings: Perspectives from ISAK Practitioners in the UK and Ireland

Abstract

Background

Anthropometric assessment in high-performance sports is complex, requiring both physical and psychological considerations. Despite the increasing number of International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) accredited practitioners, the ethical and practical challenges they face—particularly in applying anthropometric data within dynamic sports environments—remain underexplored.

Aim

This qualitative study explores ISAK practitioners’ experiences of anthropometric assessment in high-performance sport, identifying key challenges and practitioner-informed strategies to enhance practice and athlete well-being.

Method

Three on-line focus groups were conducted in August and September 2024 with 14 UK- and Ireland-based practitioners (11 female, three male), aged 44.0 ± 7.2 years. Participants had 10.6 ± 5.5 years of experience as ISAK Level 3 accredited practitioners and 11.0 ± 5.9 years of experience providing anthropometric support in sport, with 92% having worked at the international level. A semi-structured topic guide was used to facilitate discussion, and data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis framework.

Results

Three key themes were identified: (1) Holistic athlete care: Integrating anthropometric and performance data; (2) Bridging the gap: Enhancing education and training for real-world application; and (3) Challenging the status quo: Addressing cultural and organisational barriers. Participants emphasised the importance of holistic, individualised approaches to anthropometric assessment that resist reductionist views of body metrics. They advocated for structured mentorship, expanded professional development, and greater interdisciplinary collaboration to support ethical and effective practice.

Conclusions

Entrenched data-driven cultures and hierarchical structures hinder athlete-centred care. Overcoming these barriers requires collaboration between regulatory bodies, ISAK practitioners, and multidisciplinary teams. Integrating frameworks such as Entrusted Professional Activities and Communities of Practice, alongside experiential learning approaches, will enhance practitioner autonomy and ensure anthropometric assessment remains both effective and athlete centred.