Relationship Between Anthropometrics, Body Composition, and Functional Movement Quality

Abstract

Previous research suggests an inverse relationship between functional movement quality and body mass index (BMI). Specifically, what aspects of BMI are correlated with the ability to move well? PURPOSE: This study investigated the relationship between functional movement quality and various anthropometric variables, including BMI, arm length (AL), and leg length (LL), as well as percent body fat (%BF). METHODS: Fifty-two college students (26 male; 26 female) free of injury participated in this study. Functional movement quality was assessed by a commercially available, 7-test movement screen (FMS); testing was performed and scored by certified screeners per published testing procedures. Height was measured with a stadiometer; AL and LL were measured per published procedures. Weight and %BF were determined with a commercially available, multifrequency bioelectrical impedance system. Linear regression analysis was used to statistically determine the relationship between FMS scores (dependent variable), anthropometric and %BF data (independent variables). RESULTS: There was a significant relationship between FMS scores and %BF, LL, AL, and BMI collectively (R = .531; adjusted R2 = .220; p = .003). Specifically, %BF had the strongest relationship [standardized beta coefficient (β) = -.502; p = .008] followed by LL (β = -.278; p = .045). However, AL (β = -.028; p = .847) and BMI (β = .016; p = .927) were not significant variables in the regression model. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that %BF is strongly related to functional movement quality and that any noted relationship between FMS scores and BMI is largely due to the influence of %BF on BMI values. Higher %BF may simply be an indicator of lack of fitness and/or physical activity, which, in turn, may be related to poor movement quality. This should be further investigated to determine the exact relationships that do exist between these variables. Additionally, LL is a variable that may influence FMS scores. As many of the tests involve movements of the lower extremity, it is also worth investigating how LL may influence movement quality and if this is a biasing factor in movement screening.