Analysis of exercise training for treating obesity in children and adolescents: a review of recent programs

Abstract

Physical activity is recognized as a basic component of the management of the obese child, but it is not clear which kind of intervention is the most efficient. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of prescribed exercise training in obese children. We reviewed 19 studies, 10 RCT and 9 observational studies, published in the last 5 years. In the majority of these studies obese children were treated as ambulatory patient, in tertiary centers. Only 2 studies described a community based program. In half of the studies, drop-out was not reported and the rate of attendance was rarely described. On the other hand, the content of each session was well described, but exercise training intensity was below international recommendations. The analysis and interpretation of the current literature about exercise therapy in child obesity is difficult. The differences in program settings, in participant compliance and in meas­ured outcomes, make the studies difficult to compare. Instead of focusing on intensity, program implementation should emphasize the special needs of obese children including their social background and the local network available.