Metabolic efficiency paradox: Compensatory role of basal metabolic rate (BMR) in mitigating visceral fat-driven anaerobic speed deficits across BMI categories in young adults

The metabolic efficiency paradox remains underexplored in young adults, where elevated visceral fat (VF) coexists with preserved anaerobic performance. This study investigates the compensatory role of basal metabolic rate (BMR) in mitigating VF-driven anaerobic speed deficits across BMI categories and genders. A cohort of 200 university students underwent body composition analysis (VF via BIA/DEXA; BMR via indirect calorimetry/Mifflin-St Jeor equations) and anaerobic speed testing (30 m/50 m sprints). Participants were stratified into Normal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m²) and Overweight/Obese (≥25 kg/m²) groups. Regression and mediation-moderation analyses revealed that while VF negatively predicted speed (β = -0.15, p