Effects of a 6-Month Resistance Training Program on Overweight Children

By, Dr. Sc. Elton SPAHIU, Prof. Asoc. Dr. Ferdinand MARA

Abstract

School-age children’s health may be improved through physical education programs that include resistance training. Obesity in children has been linked to health issues like type II diabetes and hypertension. Designing and implementing efficient and useful therapies for the management of overweight children and who are prone to experiencing medical issues is a serious concern. Adults who are overweight generally embrace resistance training as a safe and efficient way to lose weight. Therefore, the aim of our study was to look into the effects of a 6-month resistance training program in overweight or obese children. Fifty children (n = 28 girls and 22 boys; mean age = 7.38 years) took part in a six-month periodical resistance training program 2 days per week. Body mass index (BMI), strength, anthropometric measures, and activity levels of subjects were assessed prior to and following the training program. No training injuries or severe muscular pain were reported at any point of the exercise regimen, although the individuals did experience substantial variations in height, weight, body mass index, and total fat mass. Substantial increases occurred in 1-rep maximal squat (72%), number of push-ups (80%), countermovement jump (10%), and static jump (9%). Although it is likely that some of the observed changes were the result of growth and maturation throughout the course of the research period, the data show that the resistance training program induced large and persistent increases in body mass index, measures of strength, and body fat. These findings indicate that the participant’s training program was well received by the participants and had a significant impact on their body mass index and strength. In youngsters who are overweight or obese, a periodic undulation program enhances strength, decreases body fat percentage, provides variety, and notably increases lean body mass.

How to cite: Spahiu, E., & Mara, F. (2020). Effects of a 6-month resistance training program on Overweight Children. Medicus, 4(1), 42–52.

https://doi.org/10.58944/uhgg1154