Improvement of aerobic fitness in obese children: a meta-analysis

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the effectiveness of diverse interventions in aerobic fitness adjusted for weight in obese children. A computerized search of seven databases was carried out using keywords. Effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and the heterogeneity of the studies was assessed using Cochran's Q statistic applied to the effect size means. Nine studies were selected for review as satisfying the inclusion criteria (n patients = 311). The conclusions of the meta-analysis were: (i) the programs based on aerobic exercise have a moderate positive effect on aerobic fitness; (ii) the programs based on aerobic exercise lasting more than 12 weeks (3000 minutes total exercise time) in three sessions per week (more than 60 min per session) obtain better results; (iii) overall, combined programs fail to achieve improvements in aerobic fitness; and (iv) few randomized clinical trials have been conducted.