Effect of Different Methods of Physical Activity Training for Overweight Children and Adolescents

Introduction: Considering the increasing trend of obesity and the effects of limited physical activity on raising the incidence of childhood obesity, and on noting the limitations of families for sending their children to sport and exercise classes, and the limited time of students for participation in such classes, finding appropriate ways for training physical activity at home is necessary. Methods: This non pharmacological trial was conducted during 6 months among 105 obese children and adolescents who were randomly assigned in 3 groups with 35 participants. Dietary counseling and behavioral management was similar for all groups, but in one group physical activity was conducted by attending sport classes twice a week; the second group members were trained for physical activity through an educational CD and the third group were trained by face to face education. Anthropometric indexes were measured before and after intervention. Results: After the trial, the mean body mass index (BMI) decreased significantly in the group attending sport classes and the group trained by CD. However, no significant difference was observed between the three groups who received different forms of training. Conclusion: The finding of our study showed that training through CD can be as effective as face to face education and attending sport classes. Dissemination of such type of interventions can be effective at community level.