Inclusion of resistance exercise in a multidisciplinary outpatient treatment program for preadolescent obese children

Background. Safe and effective exercise programs are needed to prevent and treat chronic diseases in childhood. In particular, preadolescent obese children should participate in activities that are specific to their special needs. Methods. We included a moderate intensity, progressive resistance training program in a multidisciplinary weight management program for obese preadolescent children. The program included diet, behavior modification, and aerobic and flexibility exercises. Results. The subjects reported no accidents or injuries and 100% compliance with the minimum required exercise prescription. Weight, percent ideal body weight, body mass index, and percent fat were reduced significantly at 10 weeks and did not increase significantly at 1 year follow-up. Height and lean body mass increased significantly at 1 year. Conclusion. A resistance training program may be safely included in a multidisciplinary weight management program for obese preadolescent children.