What are the potential effects of excess body fat on sports performance?

Excess body fat can significantly hinder speed, agility, and overall athletic performance due to several physiological reasons. As body fat increases, it adds extra weight that athletes must carry during movements. This additional weight can slow down running speed, impact acceleration, and reduce overall agility, making it difficult for athletes to perform at their peak levels.

Furthermore, excess body fat can adversely affect cardiovascular efficiency, which is crucial for endurance and overall performance. When the body is burdened by excess fat, the heart and lungs must work harder to supply oxygen to the muscles, which can lead to quicker fatigue.

In contrast to the other options, which imply positive or neutral effects of excess body fat on performance, the reality is that athletes generally need to maintain an optimal body composition to excel in their sports. This means that managing body fat is essential for enhancing physical performance.