Stricter BMI limits in 2021: F18 and M19

In 2021, there will be Body Mass Index (BMI) screenings of all Boulder and Lead semi-finalists in all IFSC World Cups. The new stricter BMI limits will be 18 for females and 19 for males. Federations will receive a letter from the IFSC Medical Commission, requesting an explanation and the Commission will also assist with support to federations with athletes below the BMI limits.

During the last years, several top climbers have come forward talking about their eating disorders. 8a has often talked about the problem. In a 2008 article, I asked whether we should have a BMI 17 recommendation for scorecard users. Many were very critical of such a recommendation. Here are some examples of different BMI, which is calculated by dividing the body weight by the square of the height (BMI = m/h²).

170 cm and 55 kg = 19 BMI
170 cm and 52 kg = 18 BMI
170 cm and 49 kg = 17 BMI

The IFSC Medical Commission has a mission to, protect & maintain the health of competing athletes on an international level as well as, to protect & maintain Sport Climbing as a safe sport. Read more about their work.