Hi runnergirl, Yasmin here. I think the genetic component is the over-riding factor. Don't hate me, but I'm at the other end of the body fat spectrum (lucky to score 9%). I'm minute, but not as small as my mum was.This has it's own disadvantages as I lose power exponentially below a certain weight, especially on the long, flat stretches. Our bodies are engineered differently & that's why different people are better at some sports rather than others (I'd be embarrassing at female rugby or high jumping (short in stature)). You're out there running & cycling. No doubt you watch your nutrition. Will you be better at hill climbs minus the 7 lbs? YES. I cycle with a professional cyclist & he maintains that every ounce counts on the hills.
I wish you all the best & support your efforts. Good on ya.
Quote Originally Posted by runnergirl
So I got measured at 21% with calipers, which seems about right. I did the math, and to get to 17 or 18% I need to lose about 7 lbs of fat.

For those who have low bf, is it genetic? Do you have to work to maintain that #?

All other things being equal, is the effort to get down to a "competative" bf worth it for racing, will 7 lbs alter my ability to climb? (Bikemomma, pink kona?)