Urbanization, Physical Capacity, and Body Composition in Rarámuri and Mestizo Populations From Northern Mexico

Area of Science:

• Anthropology
• Public Health
• Human Biology

Background:

• The Rarámuri population in Mexico provides a unique model for studying the health impacts of urbanization.
• Understanding biocultural transitions is essential for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare body composition and physical fitness between non-urbanized rural Rarámuri (NURR), urbanized Rarámuri (UR), and urban Mestizo (MEST) populations.
• To analyze how urbanization influences health-related physical performance in these groups.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study in Chihuahua, Mexico (n=171).
• Anthropometric (BMI, waist circumference, body fat %) and functional assessments (push-ups, sit-ups, flexibility, aerobic capacity) using ISAK and YMCA protocols.
• Statistical analysis using Kruskal-Wallis test.

Main Results:

• Urbanization correlated with increased adiposity and reduced aerobic capacity (VO2max).
• UR and MEST groups showed higher BMI and body fat, and lower functional endurance than NURR.
• NURR group maintained a leaner, metabolically efficient phenotype.

Conclusions:

• Urbanization leads to a biocultural transition, eroding physical activity and deteriorating cardiometabolic health.
• The Rarámuri experience illustrates functional regression due to urbanization, not adaptation.
• Preserving indigenous mobility and physical culture is vital for public health and identity.