Assessment of total fatness and fatty tissue distribution in young active and physically inactive women

Study aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the total fat and fat distribution in young active and physically inactive women. Material and methods: The study group consisted of a total of 300 students from Warsaw aged 20 to 25 years. The weekly physical activity level expressed in metabolic equivalent task was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. The distribution of adipose tissue was assessed on the basis of anthropometric measurements by somatometry. The waist and hip circumference, body mass and height were measured. Body mass index and waist to hip ratio were calculated. General fat was evaluated by bioelectric impedance. Results: Physically active students had significantly lower (p < 0.001) body mass, waist and hip circumference, lower body fat content and lower BMI and WHR compared to inactive students. Weight loss and the gynoidal type of adipose tissue distribution were more frequent among physically active subjects. In inactive women the androidal-abdominal type of distribution dominated. A healthy somatic profile characterized by BMI in the normal range, gynoid type of adipose tissue distribution and normal or slightly lower body fat was significantly more frequent in physically active subjects (36% vs. 15%). Conclusions: Lack of physical activity was associated with larger waist and hip circumference, higher BMI and unfavorable adipose tissue distribution (androidal), which increases the risk of metabolic diseases in women. The study indicates the need for education and implementation of disease prevention programs regarding abdominal fat distribution and overweight among young women.