Obesity & Performance in Physical Activity/Sport

Obesity

Obesity is a term used to describe people with a large fat content, caused by an imbalance of calories consumed compared to energy expenditure. A person is considered obese if they have a body mass index (BMI) of over or over 20% above the standard weight-to-height ratio. If body fat gets to this level it can have serious health implications.

Physical

It is linked to:

• Types of cancer
• Heart disease
• Heart attacks
• Type 2 diabetes
• High cholesterol levels

Mental

It is linked to:

• Depression
• Low self esteem
• Loss of confidence

Social

It is linked to:

• An inability to socialise (loss of confidence)
• Inability to leave home (due to mobility)

How Obesity Can Affect Performance

Limits cardiovascular endurance: Unable to exercise without stopping repeatedly, due to the excess weight and the drop-in efficiency of the cardio-espiratory system

Limits Flexibility: Excess fat around the joints restricts movement

Limits Agility: Excess weight makes it harder to change direction quickly

Limits Speeds/Power: Excess weight makes it harder to move fast