A study conducted by researchers reveals that engaging in just five months of regular exercise can significantly decrease cardiovascular risk factors in obese children.

A collaborative study led by researchers from the Department of Physical Education and Sports at UGR, in conjunction with pediatricians from the Pediatric Endocrinology Unit of the “Virgen de las Nieves” University Hospital in Granada, along with national and international partners, has revealed the significant benefits of exercise for schoolchildren in enhancing their physical fitness and overall health.

The study, spearheaded by Francisco B. Ortega, a professor at UGR’s Department of Physical Education and Sports, demonstrated that nearly 80% of participating children experienced a noteworthy reduction in total body fat after completing the physical exercise program. “We observed a substantial proportion of schoolchildren, previously at a high risk of metabolic syndrome, transitioning out of this risk category following the exercise regimen,” explains Ortega. Jairo H. Migueles, another principal investigator, notes the positive trend observed in both boys and girls, as they improved from poor to optimal physical fitness levels, particularly in terms of aerobic capacity.

The exercise program, designed around group games and simple activities like outdoor running and moderate to high-intensity strength exercises, required no advanced equipment. Its practicality and relevance to everyday settings, such as schools or after-school activities, highlight its social transferability, according to Migueles.

Cristina Cadenas Sánchez, another key researcher involved in coordinating the study, emphasizes the pivotal role of physical activity in combating childhood obesity and averting metabolic complications. As childhood obesity rates surge globally, with Spain among the countries witnessing alarming increases, addressing this issue becomes paramount. Children grappling with obesity face heightened risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and significant functional impairments that can severely impact their quality of life.

In summary, the study underscores the critical importance of integrating physical activity into strategies for managing childhood obesity and preventing associated metabolic disorders, underscoring the need for concerted efforts in promoting active lifestyles among children.