Correlation of Percentage Body Fat, Waist Circumference and Waist-to-Hip Ratio with Abdominal Muscle Strength

Sedentary lifestyle and consumption of high-fat foods have become widespread, especially in the urban population. This leads to a reduction in lean body mass and increased body fat. The correlation between body fat indices and low back pain has been less explored and documented. The aim of this study was to identify the correlation between the percentage of body fat, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio and abdominal muscle strength. Percentage of body fat was estimated by using the body composition analyzer method using Tanita BC-545 Innerscan Segmental Body Composition. Waist-to-hip ratio was calculated by dividing the waist circumference by hip circumference. Abdominal muscle (rectus abdominis and external oblique) strength was measured by maximum voluntary isometric contraction as measured by surface electromyography. A positive correlation was observed between waist circumference and the percentage of body fat, while a negative correlation was observed between the average maximum voluntary isometric contraction of rectus abdominis and external oblique muscles and the percentage of body fat. Individuals with a high percentage of body fat tend to have higher fat distribution over the abdominal region and decreased abdominal muscle strength. Therapists should emphasize the use of abdominal muscles in individuals with high body fat in order to reduce the associated risk of the development of poor posture and low back pain.