Association between body mass index and physical fitness of normal weight & overweight University students

Abstract Background: University students face unique lifestyle challenges that can impact their health, physical fitness, and body composition. While Body Mass Index (BMI) is commonly used to assess weight status, it has significant limitations, particularly in distinguishing between muscle and fat mass. This can lead to misclassification, especially among individuals with athletic builds or those with metabolically healthy obesity. Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between BMI and physical fitness among university students, considering the moderating role of body type. Methods: The study evaluates key components of physical fitness, including cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, and body composition. Body types are categorized using somatotype analysis (ectomorph, mesomorph, endomorph) and detailed body composition measurements. Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, sleep, and stress levels are also considered. Results: Preliminary findings suggest that BMI alone is not a sufficient indicator of physical fitness. Individuals with the same BMI but different body types show significant variation in physical fitness measures. For example, mesomorphic individuals often display higher muscular strength and cardiovascular fitness compared to others with similar BMIs but differing body compositions. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of incorporating body type and lifestyle factors into health assessments for university students. A more comprehensive approach beyond BMI is necessary to accurately evaluate physical fitness and design effective, individualized health interventions. Keywords: Body Mass Index, Physical Fitness, University Students, Body Type, Somatotype, Health Assessment, Lifestyle Factors