Anthropometry of Sherpa men.

On 109 male Sherpas, aged 18--85 years, 24 anthropometric measurements were performed, including weight, height, 18 bony measurements, 2 limb circumferences, and 4 skinfolds. From these data, upper and lower limb lengths, 12 indices, and total body fat were calculated. The Sherpas are of medium stature and body build, with Mongoloid cranial and facial characteristics and very little body fat. Their relatively large chests, long legs, and large calf muscles may be a racial adaptation to the high altitude at which they live and to the load-carrying, which is a feature of their life.