Fitness Testing
Fitness Testing > Tests > Anthropometry > Body Size > Arm Span
Arm Span
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purpose: Long arms are advantageous for some sports which involve reaching and tackling. -
equipment required: ruler or tape measure, wall.
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description / procedure: facing away from the wall, with back and buttocks touching the arms are stretched out horizontally. Measure from one furthermost finger tip to the other.
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results: The arm length measures can be compared to the person's height. On average, arm span should be about equal to height. By subtracting a measurement for shoulder width from this measurement you can get a measure of average arm length.
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advantages: very low cost, simple and quick test
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other comments: It is important for the subject to fully stretch to get the maximum reach, and that the arms are held exactly horizontally. To assist in keeping the outstretched arms horizontal, use a wall that has horizontal lines already on it such as a brick wall. Also measure out from a corner or wall protrusion so that one hand can be stable and all measurements are away from it.
Related Pages
- see also similar test arm length measurement
- vertical jump test: the initial reach height measure when conducting the vertical jump test is another measure of reach including arm reach.
