Background Declining functional capacity is a major contributor to disability in older populations. This study aimed to examine the association between body mass index (BMI) and physical function in physically active adult women. Methods A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted on 515 women aged 46–90 years participating in a free community‐based physical activity program in Brazil. Functional capacity was assessed using handgrip strength, trunk flexibility, lower limb muscle strength (LLMS), and walking speed. Participants were classified by BMI into underweight ( 0.05). Trunk flexibility was significantly lower in the obese group (21.3 cm vs. 26.3 cm, p < 0.05). LLMS was significantly associated with walking performance across all BMI categories. Conclusion Higher BMI is associated with reduced flexibility and mobility in adult women. LLMS appears critical for maintaining functional independence.
Souza-Lima et al. (Thu,) studied this question.