Scientific mapping of somatotype research publications: A bibliometric analysis (1944–2023)

Authors

  • Dhoni Akbar Ghozali Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia.
  • Enrico Ananda Budiono Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia.
  • Muhana Fawwazy Ilyas Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia.
  • Saiful Hidayat National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
  • Ananda Perwira Bakti Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.634281

Keywords:

Bibliometric Analysis, Body Assessment, Interdisciplinary Research, International Collaboration, Somatotype

Abstract

The aim of this study was to map the global somatotype research trends using a bibliometric analysis. The method employed a bibliometric analysis of data sourced from the Scopus database, yielding 2,438 relevant studies authored by 7,609 individuals. To analyze these data, VOSviewer and Biblioshiny were employed to visualize publication trends, key authors, institutions, journals, and keywords. Key findings include a significant research focus in "Medicine" (39.6%) and "Health Professions" (13.1%), with emerging interdisciplinary opportunities in "Psychology" and "Engineering." Notable research themes include "somatotype components", "BMI", and "body image", with emerging studies focusing on 3D human models and artificial neural networks. Despite these advancements, international collaboration remains limited, mainly among industrialized nations. Additionally, the analysis highlights the critical role of somatotype in sports science for optimizing athlete performance and talent identification. Furthermore, new technologies, such as 3D scanning and machine learning, promise advancements in somatotype assessment. Future research should focus on enhancing validity and reliability by integrating advanced technologies and fostering international collaboration to overcome scientific isolation. In conclusion, somatotype research has significantly evolved, with concentrated efforts in medicine and health professions and expanding interdisciplinary collaborations. This study provides valuable insights, emphasizing the need for technological advancements and greater global collaboration.

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Author Biography

Muhana Fawwazy Ilyas, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia.

 

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Published

26-02-2026

How to Cite

Ghozali, D. A., Budiono, E. A., Ilyas, M. F., Hidayat, S., & Bakti, A. P. (2026). Scientific mapping of somatotype research publications: A bibliometric analysis (1944–2023). SPORT TK-EuroAmerican Journal of Sport Sciences, 15, 4. https://doi.org/10.6018/sportk.634281

Issue

Vol. 15 (2026)

Section

Articles

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