The Department of Human Movement Science (HMS) in the Faculty of Health Sciences recently took a significant step in advancing its practical training by hosting an International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) Level 1 Course, facilitated by world-renowned expert Professor Hans de Ridder from the North-West University (NWU).
Professor de Ridder, a Level 4 ISAK-accredited anthropometrist, one of only eight in the world, led the three-day (1-4 October) course attended by HMS Honours and Master’s students. The training combined theoretical and practical sessions focused on body composition, morphology, and measurement techniques, equipping students with vital skills for assessing body fat percentage, muscle mass, and somatotype classification.
Students completed both theoretical and practical examinations, demonstrating their ability to take precise anthropometric measurements. To obtain full accreditation, participants must complete 20 post-course profiles, after which they will be certified as ISAK Level 1 Anthropometrists for four years. In addition to the student training, the HOD of HMS, Associate Professor Maya van Gent, successfully renewed her ISAK Level 3 accreditation for the third consecutive time, making her one of only three ISAK Level 3 anthropometrists in Africa.
“The course marks another step toward strengthening practical competency and advancing applied human movement science at the University of Fort Hare,” said Prof van Gent.