The association between vigorous physical activities and fat deposition in male adolescents

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between participation in vigorous physical activities (VPA) and indicators of adiposity and fat distribution in male adolescents. Methods: Subjects were classified on the basis of the number of reported 15-min periods over 3 d during which VPA were performed. Results: Body weight, fat mass, body mass index, sum of six subcutaneous skinfolds, trunk and extremity skinfolds, and trunk to extremity skinfolds ratio (T/E ratio) were all significantly and inversely related to a higher VPA participation. Moreover, T/E ratio was significantly lower in the subgroup reporting a mean of 7.8 15-min periods of activity for 3 d (equivalent to a mean of 39 min.d(-1)) compared with subjects reporting no participation. This decrease in T/E ratio was more pronounced in subjects reporting a mean of 13.6 15-min periods of VPA for 3 d. Conclusion: These observations reinforce the idea that excess abdominal fat accumulation can be prevented by regular participation in vigorous physical activities.