Abstract
Introduction
This study aimed to compare different Body Mass Index (BMI) categories, body composition parameters, postural balance, and functional mobility among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences; and examine the relationship between BMI and body composition with postural balance and functional mobility among female students at the college of applied medical sciences.
Materials and methods
Female students, aged 18‒25 years old. They were subdivided into four groups according to their BMI category: underweight, normal, overweight, or obese, with n = 20 participants in each group. A Bioelectrical Impedance Human Body Analyzer (BIA) was used to assess the following body composition parameters: Fat Percentage (FATP), fat mass, muscle mass, and Total Body Water (TBW). A NeuroCom Balance Master was used to assess postural balance and functional mobility. A Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was employed to assess functional mobility. All data were analyzed using SPSS.
Results
Participants’ ages and heights were matched (p > 0.05). However, there were variables that were statistically significantly higher in terms of weight, BMI and body composition, including FATP, fat mass, muscle mass, and TBW (p = 0.000), among the obese group. Moreover, postural balance was lower among the obese group. There was a significant relationship between BMI and body composition variables in respect of postural balance but not in relation to functional mobility.
Conclusion
Postural instability but not functional mobility was related to higher BMI and body composition values among the study groups.
Keywords
Postural balance; Functional mobility; BMI; Body Composition; Students
Highlights
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Postural balance was reduced in higher BMI students.
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BMI was correlated with postural balance but not functional mobility.
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Body composition was correlated with postural balance but not functional mobility.
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Exploring the factors that contribute to the disturbance of postural balance and functional mobility is recommended.