BMI is included in the SFT because of the role it plays in maintaining what?

The inclusion of BMI in the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) is significant due to its correlation with functional mobility. Body Mass Index (BMI) serves as an indicator of body composition, providing insight into whether an individual falls into underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese categories.

Maintaining an optimal BMI is crucial as it can influence an individual's ability to move and perform daily activities effectively. High or low BMI can lead to health issues that may impair functional mobility, such as decreased strength, increased risk of falls, or other conditions that affect movement. Assessing BMI helps identify seniors who may need interventions to improve their mobility through targeted exercises or lifestyle changes, ultimately supporting their overall independence and quality of life.

The other options, while important aspects of overall health, do not directly connect to the primary focus of BMI in relation to functional mobility as effectively. For instance, while cardiovascular health is important, BMI alone is not a comprehensive measure of heart health. Similarly, muscle size and mental alertness, although they may be affected by body composition, are not the central reasons for including BMI in this particular fitness test focused on mobility.