Tag: obesity

Fitness assessment of obese primary school students

Izabela Maciejewska-Paszek

Izabela Maciejewska-Paszek – Fitness assessment of obese primary school students –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2026; 26(3); 53-63

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG7D1AH5Y9

Abstract
Aim of the study. The aim was to assess the relationship between the BMI value and the results of selected physical fitness tests, including endurance and muscle strength.
Material and methods. The study was conducted between 2024 and 2026 and involved 88 children aged 9–14 years with overweight and/or obesity (48 girls and 40 boys). Body composition analysis was performed and physical fitness was assessed using selected physical fitness tests.
Results. Body composition abnormalities were demonstrated in the 88 children – elevated BMI, increased adipose tissue content, and reduced total body water content. The assessment of children’s physical fitness revealed that an elevated BMI affects physical fitness, but this effect varied depending on the age and gender of the examined children.
Conclusions. The obtained results indicate that the applied assessment methods enable early identification of reduced muscle performance in children with obesity. This may be a valuable tool for pediatric physiotherapists in functional assessment, planning individually tailored exercise programs, and implementing appropriate therapeutic procedures.
Key words
physical fitness, children, obesity
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Comparative effects of exercise intensities on VO2max, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure in combined overweight and obese individuals. A meta-analysis and systematic review

Noorfahzarina Amiuliya Abu Bakar, Afryna Batrisyia Md Soberi, Muhammad Syazani Sohaimi, Noor Fatihah Ilias, Sazzli Shahlan Kasim, Rahmat Adnan, Ruziyati Mohamed, Mazlifah Omar, Hashbullah Ismail

Noorfahzarina Amiuliya Abu Bakar, Afryna Batrisyia Md Soberi, Muhammad Syazani Sohaimi, Noor Fatihah Ilias, Sazzli Shahlan Kasim, Rahmat Adnan et al. – Comparative effects of exercise intensities on VO2max, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure in combined overweight and obese individuals. A meta-analysis and systematic review –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2026; 26(2); 66-75

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG560A8NWD

Abstract
Background. Obesity is a significant global health issue that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aerobic exercise plays a crucial role in obesity management, and both high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) have been extensively studied. Nevertheless, it remains unclear which exercise intensity is more effective for individuals with overweight and obesity.
Objectives. This study aimed to assess the effects of HIIT and MICT on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO₂max), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in individuals with overweight and obesity.
Methods. Electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, were searched for randomized controlled trials published between 1970 and 20 October 2022. Mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model in RevMan version 5.4. A funnel plot was constructed to assess publication bias, and the I² statistic was used to evaluate heterogeneity.
Results. Eighteen studies involving individuals with overweight or obesity were included. Among the participants, 221 underwent HIIT, whereas 201 participated in MICT. No significant differences were observed between HIIT and MICT in improving VO₂max (MD = 0.33 mL/kg/min, 95% CI: −0.61 to 1.26, P = 0.49, I² = 51%). Furthermore, no significant difference was found in SBP between HIIT and MICT (MD = 0.84 mmHg, 95% CI: −3.58 to 5.26, P = 0.71, I² = 80%). Likewise, no significant difference was observed in DBP (MD = −0.98 mmHg, 95% CI: −1.97 to 0.01, P = 0.05, I² = 14%).
Key words
VO₂max, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, blood pressure, overweight, obesity, HIIT, MICT
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Comparative effects of upper-body plyometric training and circuit interval training in obese adults with moderate obstructive sleep apnea: a pilot study

R. Jayabharathi, S. Ramachandran, N. Senthil Kumar, G.Mohan Kumar

R. Jayabharathi, S. Ramachandran, N. Senthil Kumar,G.Mohan Kumar – Comparative effects of upper-body plyometric training and circuit interval training in obese adults with moderate obstructive sleep apnea: a pilot study –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2026; 26(2); 13-22

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG560AA7K2

Streszczenie
Background. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent sleep-related breathing disorder, especially among obese adults. Excess upper-body adiposity, altered respiratory mechanics, and compromised pulmonary function contribute to disease severity and functional limitation. Exercise interventions targeting the upper-body musculature and pulmonary mechanisms may offer an alternative, non-invasive therapeutic strategy. This pilot study aimed to investigate the effects of a tri-model exercise approach combining upper-body plyometrics and circuit interval training on anthropometric characteristics and pulmonary function in obese individuals with moderate OSA.
Materials and methods. Obese adults with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m², aged 30–45 years, and diagnosed with moderate OSA were randomly allocated into three groups. Group A received structured upper-body plyometric training, Group B received a circuit interval training program, while Group C received conventional physiotherapy. Training was delivered for 45 minutes per session, three days per week, for 12 weeks. Neck circumference, waist circumference, and upper-body composition were assessed using a body composition analyzer. Pulmonary parameters — FVC, FEV1, and MVV — were evaluated using standardized spirometry.
Results. Group B demonstrated greater reductions in neck circumference, waist circumference, and subcutaneous fat measures compared with the other groups. Significant within-group improvement was observed for FEV1 in Group B (p < 0.05); however, changes in FVC (p = 0.13) and MVV (p = 0.06) were not statistically significant. Therefore, improvements in pulmonary measures should be interpreted cautiously and not considered definitive evidence of effectiveness.
Conclusion. These preliminary pilot findings suggest that circuit interval training may be a feasible intervention for improving selected anthropometric and pulmonary outcomes in obese adults with moderate OSA. However, due to the small sample size and the absence of statistically significant changes in several pulmonary variables, no claims regarding the superiority of one intervention over another can be made.
Słowa kluczowe
obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, exercise therapy, body composition, spirometry
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Effect of physical exercise on adiponectin levels in humans: a systematic review

Dany Pramuno Putra, Junian Cahyanto Wibawa, Melya Rossa, Ahmad Riyono

 

Dany Pramuno Putra, Junian Cahyanto Wibawa, Melya Rossa, Ahmad Riyono
– Effect of physical exercise on adiponectin levels in humans: a systematic review
–  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 436-441

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E1IVU4

Abstract
Introduction. Adiponectin is a specific protein secreted by adipocyte cells and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. In the past two decades, adiponectin has attracted considerable medical interest due to its relationship with obesity. This study aimed to determine whether physical exercise has an effect on increasing adiponectin levels in humans.
Method. A systematic search of journal databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Scopus, was conducted. The analysis considered studies published within the last five years that investigated adiponectin levels and physical activity. Publications from non-credible journals were excluded. A total of 108 papers were initially identified. Approximately ten carefully selected, double-blind studies were included for detailed review. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed to establish the study’s methodology.
Results. The systematic analysis demonstrated that physical exercise has a positive effect in raising adiponectin levels in humans.
Conclusion. Future reviews should explore the genetic pathways and mechanisms that regulate adiponectin expression during physical activity.
Keywords
physical exercise, adiponectin, obesity, health, adipocyte
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The level of physical activity literacy among obese high school students during post-pandemic COVID-19

Gunathevan Elumalai, Ruaibah Yazani Tengah, Mirza Azny Mustafa, Mohansundar Sankaravel, Fariba Hossein Abadi

 

Gunathevan Elumalai, Ruaibah Yazani Tengah, Mirza Azny Mustafa, Mohansundar Sankaravel, Fariba Hossein Abadi – The level of physical activity literacy among obese high school students during post-pandemic COVID-19 –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 198-204

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E1G0A3

Abstract
The increasing prevalence of obesity among Malaysian children and adolescents has been observed since the 1970s and can lead to long-term health problems as they transition into adulthood. This survey focuses on assessing the level of physical activity literacy among 720 obese high school students in Perak during the post-pandemic COVID-19 period. A self-designed questionnaire with high validity (r = 0.87) and reliability (r = 0.95) was employed for data collection. Findings from the descriptive analysis indicate that 408 respondents (56.7%) engage in some form of physical activity, while 312 respondents have never been involved in any physical activity. However, it is important to note that the duration of physical activity is insufficient for the majority of students. Only 114 individuals (16.8%) out of the 408 respondents who are physically active meet the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of engaging in physical activity at least three times a week for a minimum total of 150 minutes.
Additionally, a concerning aspect of the survey results showed a high number of students using gadgets for more than five hours a day. According to the data, 451 students (62.64%) exceed the recommended screen time limit, which can contribute to sedentary behavior and further exacerbate the issue of obesity. The independent t-test revealed significant differences in physical activity literacy by gender (p = 0.00), with males (M = 41.23, SD = 1.69) scoring higher than females (M = 32.94, SD = 1.47). However, the duration of gadget usage showed no significant difference (p = .743) between males (M = 6.35, SD = 2.84) and females (M = 6.28, SD = 2.93). A one-way ANOVA test also showed no significant differences based on ethnicity (p = 0.566).
These findings indicate a need to prioritize physical activity promotion and education among obese high school students in Perak, especially in the current post-pandemic era. Encouraging students to engage in regular physical activity and reducing excessive screen time can help address the issue of obesity. It is important for schools, families, and the community to work together to create an environment that supports and encourages a healthy and active lifestyle.
Keywords
obesity, children, adolescents, physical activity literacy, sedentary behavior
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Effects of soleus muscle push-ups on oxidative stress, inflammatory markers and adipocytokines. A scoping review

Amenah Hisham, Hayder A. Hasan, Kalyana Chakravarthy Bairapareddy

Amenah Hisham, Hayder A. Hasan, Kalyana Chakravarthy Bairapareddy – Effects of soleus muscle push-ups on oxidative stress, inflammatory markers and adipocytokines. A scoping review –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(2); 120-127

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG00E15H6O

Abstract
Sedentary lifestyle is highly prevalent nowadays due to prolonged sitting hours at work, the use of vehicles for transportation instead of walking, and limited physical activity. Such a lifestyle can increase the risk for chronic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and hypertension. Activity performed in a sitting position may be a feasible alternative; one such exercise is soleus push-ups (SPU), a low-impact sitting exercise that might modulate various biomarkers such as inflammatory markers and oxidative stress. Hence, our review aims to examine the impact of SPUs on certain markers, including oxidative stress markers, inflammatory markers, and adipocytokines, as this is the first research of its kind to target additional blood markers in relation to SPUs. The findings will be useful in shaping a national cultural health intervention program in an easy, affordable, and sustainable modern way to prevent the escalating prevalence of metabolic derangements.
Keywords
adipocytokines, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress markers, leptin, adiponectin, resistin, interleukin 6, interleukin 10, TNF-α, obesity, type 2 diabetes
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Moderate Intensity Interval Training (MIIT) and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) exercise therapy against irisin levels in obesity

Didib Riwayadi, Rachmah Laksmi Ambardini, Panggung Sutapa, Deni Hardianto, Syed Kamaruzaman Syed Ali, Manil Karakauki, Sherif Juniar Aryanto, Kukuh Wahyudin Pratama, Danarstuti Utami, Agus Kristianto

Didib Riwayadi et al. – Moderate Intensity Interval Training (MIIT) and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) exercise therapy against irisin levels in obesity –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(4); 136-139

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG01A8Q3S7

Abstract
Obesity can cause physiological disorders. These physiological disturbances cannot be separated from the roles of irisin. Exercising with the right measure, measurable, and regularly is a strategy for dealing with obesity. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the effect of irisin levels on exercise with the Moderate Intensity Interval Training (MIIT) and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) levels models in obese rats.
This research is a true experimental laboratory study with a pretest-posttest control group design. This research was conducted at the Bioscience Laboratory of Brawijaya University, Malang. The research sample used 27 obese male Wistar rats divided into 9 MIIT group rats, 9 HIIT rats, and 9 control rats. Exercise intervention is given for 6 weeks at a frequency of 4 times per week. The intensity of MIIT (60–80% of base line ability), HIIT (90–100% of base line ability), irisin levels are obtained from blood tests using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data analysis used the Anova test and post hoc Tukey analysis with a significance level of 0.01.
The results showed that there was no significant difference in irisin levels (p = 0.507). The HIIT irisin difference was lower than MIIT (p = 0.932) and Control (p = 0.491), and there was no difference in irisin value between the MIIT and Control groups (p = 0.708).
Key words
obesity, MIIT, HIIT, irisin
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HIIT vs continuous training in obesity prevention

Muhammad Nasihul Waffak, Ervin Arifianti, Ali Satia Graha

 

Muhammad Nasihul Waffak, Ervin Arifianti, Ali Satia Graha – HIIT vs continuous training in obesity prevention –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 363-366

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020A8PL

Abstract:
This research discusses the role of training using the High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Continuous Training models with their influence in preventing weight gain or preventing obesity.
Material and Methods. The research used male Wistar animals aged 2 to 3 months with a total of 27 Wistar, HIIT (n = 9), Continuous (n = 9), Control (n = 9). The HIIT training protocol uses an intensity of 90‑100% of the total maximum baseline speed with intervals of 1:1 (2 minutes on: 2 minutes off) for 15 minutes. Continuous training uses an intensity of 50‑70% of the baseline speed for 30 minutes. Controls were not given any treatment at all. The exercise procedure uses a special Wistar treadmill and the exercise is carried out for 6 weeks. Body weight was measured using a WRT type scale. Data were presented descriptively and tested pre‑post body weight differences using the paired sample T-test and tested body weight between groups using ANOVA.
Result. The HIIT group experienced an increase in body weight of 49%. In the Continuous group, there was a difference between pre and post body weight which increased by 50%. In the control group, there was also a significant difference between pre and post body weight, which increased by 70%. Meanwhile, in the final body weight between groups compared with control, there was also a significant difference between HIIT vs Control (P = 0.008), Continuous vs Control (P = 0.016).
Conclusion. HIIT and continuous training models can be used as alternatives to prevent weight gain. This exercise model has the same effect in terms of preventing weight gain.

Keywords:
HIIT, continuous training, obesity

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Assessment of gait in terms of body mass composition disorders among children aged 6-10 years

Izabela Maciejewska-Paszek, Patrycja Paszek-Jemilianowicz

 

Izabela Maciejewska-Paszek, Patrycja Paszek-Jemilianowicz – Assessment of gait in terms of body mass composition disorders among children aged 6-10 years –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 55-64

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020AQDR

Abstract

Study aim: Overweight and obesity are common not only among adults but also among the youngest children around the world. There are many negative consequences of excessive body weight affecting physical, psychological, and social health. Overweight and obesity can impair the musculoskeletal system and affect normal gait, especially in children who are developing their gait. The aim of the study was to analyze gait parameters in terms of body fat content and to compare the positioning of feet and knees during walking among children with normal and exceeded body fat content.
Material and methods: The study covered 413 children aged 6-10, of both sexes. Body mass composition was analyzed using the bioelectrical impedance method. Based on these results, a study group (excess body fat) and a control group (normal body fat) were selected. Gait analysis was performed using the OptoGait optical system. Results were statistically analyzed using the Statistica program, employing the U Mann Whitney test and Spearman’s Rank correlation tests.
Results: Among 232 children, body mass composition disorders were detected – excess body fat content and reduced total water content. The study group showed a body fat percentage of 34.70% (±3.64), while the control group had 19.36% (±3.13). Gait analysis showed that the percentage of body fat influences the gait parameters of the examined children.
Conclusions: An increase in the percentage of adipose tissue in the children’s body results in a lower step length, cycle length, and speed. Higher body fat content also resulted in longer flat foot contact time and double support time.

Keywords

gait, children, overweight, obesity

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The aerobic exercise system for increasing Body Mass Index, waist circumference of overweight and obese students ages 20-22

Djoko Nugroho, M. Furqon Hidayatullah, Muchsin Doewes, Sapta Kunta Purnama, Jezreel Donguila, Fritzie Inayan, Jess Bedro, Edi Setiawan, Joseph Lobo, Zsolt Németh

Djoko Nugroho, M. Furqon Hidayatullah, Muchsin Doewes, Sapta Kunta Purnama, Jezreel Donguila, Fritzie Inayan, Jess Bedro, Edi Setiawan, Joseph Lobo, Zsolt Németh
–The aerobic exercise system for increasing Body Mass Index, waist circumference of overweight and obese students ages 20-22. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(5); 227-233

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG20B8A7

Abstract
Aerobic exercise has been widely recognized as an efficacious intervention for enhancing students’ body mass index and waist circumference, particularly among individuals classified as overweight and obese. However, a comprehensive search for studies conducted within the context of higher education in the Indonesia yielded no existing research. This study investigates the impact of aerobic activities on male students aged 20 – 22 [(N21 YEARS OLD = 9(45.00%), N20 YEARS OLD = 7(35.00%), N22 YEARS OLD = 4(20.00%); age mean of mean = 20.85 ± 0.75] from a selected higher education institution in the country. The present study employed an experimental research methodology, utilizing a sample of male college students who were overweight or obese. The sample size was divided equally, with a total of 20 participants (N = 20). The participants engaged in a 12-week aerobic fitness regimen consisting of one-hour session, three times per week. Independent samples t-test was used to examine the difference in the performance of both groups in relation to their BMI and WC post-test scores, while paired t-test was employed to compare the difference in the pre-test and post-test scores on participants’ BMI and WC. Based on the results, a notable disparity in performance was detected between the two groups, with obese students demonstrating a considerable enhancement in their BMI [t(15.887) = −9.797, p < 0.05]. On the other hand, no significant difference was observed in the performance of the groups in terms of WC [t(16.665) = −0.505, p = 0.620]. A notable disparity was noted in the pre- and post-test scores of the participants’ BMI and WC subsequent to engaging in a 12-week regimen of aerobic exercise, both in a general sense (BMI [t(19) = 14.439, p < 0.05 and WC t(19) = 14.333, p < 0.05) and within each group [Overweight: BMI t(9) = 14.488, p < 0.05] and WC t(9) = 15.057, p < 0.05; Obese: BMI t(9) = 7.922, p < 0.05] and WC t(9) = 7.746, p < 0.05]. Based on the findings, it can be inferred that involving male students who are overweight or obese in a meticulously planned aerobic exercise regimen has the potential to yield substantial improvements in their BMI and WC. This, in turn, may lead to increased performance in physical activity. Limitations and future research endeavors are hereby presented.

Keyword
saerobic exercises, body mass index, overweightness, obesity, waist circumference

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