Effect of Body Mass Index on Balance, Trunk Muscle Endurance, Functional Mobility and, Physical Activity in College Students

Objective: The increasing prevalence of obesity at all ages in recent years also increases the need for physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Obesity can negatively affect physical fitness and college students are prone to obesity due to stress and anxiety they experience during their university years. This study aims to investigate the effect of body mass index (BMI) on balance, trunk muscle endurance, functional mobility, and physical activity in college students. Methods: College students were divided into four groups according to BMI values: underweight, normal, overweight and obese. Balance was assessed using biodex balance system, trunk muscle endurance was measured through Biering-Sorensen and McGill trunk flexor endurance tests, functional mobility was evaluated with 30-second sit-to-stand test, and physical activity determined using International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. Results: The study included 73 college students (mean= 20.76±1.11 years, 72.6% women). Normal weight students were significantly better than obese students regarding trunk muscle endurance scores (p<0.01). Obese students spent significantly more time sitting than underweight students (p<0.05). No significant correlation was found between BMI and balance and functional mobility (p>0.05). Conclusion: Increased BMI can negatively affect trunk muscle endurance and sitting time. Exercises to improve trunk muscle endurance should be added to the physiotherapy and rehabilitation programs of obese students. Therefore, it is important for universities to adopt an approach that supports exercise habits and physical activity to prevent obesity.