Key Message
In aging process there is an increase in body adiposity and reduction in muscle size, mainly in women, due to the consequences of menopause and lower level of physical activity. This study analyzed the influence of anthropometric indices of adiposity on the physical performance of middle-aged and older women (50-80 years old), using canonical correlation analysis. The findings showed an inverse relationship between the conicity index and muscle strength and power, while a direct relationship between the same index and gait speed. Therefore, physical performance is influenced by changes in body composition that occur with age in this population group