Somatotype Profile of Elite Boxers in Bangladesh: An Anthropometric Assessment Using the Heath–Carter Method

Background: Somatotype is a recognised determinant of talent identification and athletic performance in combat sports, yet no published Heath–Carter anthropometric data exist for elite boxers in Bangladesh. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, fifty (50) elite male boxers (national/international competition experience, 4–9 years of training) were assessed using the Heath–Carter anthropometric somatotype method: height, weight, four skinfolds (triceps, subscapular, supraspinale, medial calf), two breadths (humerus, femur) and two girths (flexed arm, calf). Mean and standard deviation were computed for each somatotype component. Results: The mean endomorphy, mesomorphy and ectomorphy values were 2.91 ± 1.17, 4.94 ± 0.87 and 0.50 ± 0.00, respectively, yielding a combined somatotype of 2.91-4.94-0.50. Across the twelve competitive weight divisions, endomorphy and mesomorphy differed significantly (one-way ANOVA, both p ≤ .003), rising from the lightest to the heaviest divisions. Conclusion: Elite Bangladeshi boxers present an endomorphic-mesomorph physique — moderate fatness, high muscularity and low linearity — consistent with international combat-sport literature, supporting the use of Heath–Carter somatotyping as a reference tool for talent identification and athlete monitoring in Bangladesh.