Exercise and obesity in children

Abstract

Research on exercise and childhood obesity is presented. The components of energy balance are reviewed, with particular emphasis on relating decreased expenditure versus increased intake as causes for obesity. The role of sedentary behaviors as a risk factor for obesity was considered, and research on choice between vigorous and sedentary behavior briefly reviewed. The majority of the review focuses on the use of exercise and diet plus exercise in the treatment of childhood obesity. This research suggests exercise alone is not a sufficient treatment for obesity, and the combination of diet plus exercise is more effective for long-term, rather than short-term, changes. Finally, suggestions for new research are presented.