Changes in obesity, cardiorespiratory fitness and habitual physical activity following a one-year intervention program in obese youth: a pilot study.

AIM: The aim To assess the effects of a unique twelve month program of physical activity and health education on body mass index, cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity habits in obese youth. METHODS: Thirty-seven physician referred subjects, nineteen girls (12.7 ± 3.1 years) and eighteen boys (12.2 ± 2.8 years) participated in the study. Treatment consisted of a unique program of physical activity that emphasized playing games. Activity sessions were offered one time per week, two hours each session, for twelve months. A two hour health education class was provided every 3 months. Weight, height, Body Mass Index, cardiorespiratory fitness and habitual physical activity were measured. RESULTS: Findings of the study demonstrated a significant improvement in body mass index, cardiorespiratory fitness (P<0.001), and habitual physical activity (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Results of the pilot study were favorable in addressing serious health issues in young obese boys and girls.