Metabolic Efficiency Paradox: Compensatory Role of Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) in Mitigating Visceral Fat-Driven Anaerobic Speed Deficits Across BMI Categories in Young Adults

The metabolic efficiency paradox remains underexplored in young adults, where elevated visceral fat (VF) coexists with preserved anaerobic performance. This study investigates the compensatory role of basal metabolic rate (BMR) in mitigating VF-driven anaerobic speed deficits across BMI categories and genders. A cohort of 200 university students underwent body composition analysis (VF via BIA/DEXA; BMR via indirect calorimetry/Mifflin-St Jeor equations) and anaerobic speed testing (30m/50m sprints). Participants were stratified into Normal BMI (18.5–24.9 kg/m²) and Overweight/Obese (≥25 kg/m²) groups. Regression and mediation-moderation analyses revealed that while VF negatively predicted speed (β = -0.15, p < 0.001), BMR attenuated this relationship through a significant interaction (VF×BMR: β = -0.001, p = 0.004). Mediation analysis confirmed BMR’s partial mediation (28%, p = 0.002), with stronger compensatory effects in males and overweight individuals. ROC thresholds identified critical VF (≥4.8 units) and BMR (≤1245 kcal/day) values predictive of speed decline. Gender disparities emerged: males exhibited higher BMR and resilience to VF, while females demonstrated metabolic flexibility despite greater adiposity. These findings challenge conventional models by positing BMR as a metabolic buffer, offsetting VF’s biomechanical and inflammatory burdens. The study underscores the need for individualized training programs leveraging metabolic profiling to optimize anaerobic performance in high-VF populations. Longitudinal research is warranted to explore causality and intervention efficacy.