Physical Activity, Fitness and Fatness in Children and Adolescents

Childhood and adolescence are crucial periods of life since dynamic changes in various metabolic systems, including hormonal regulation, changes in body fat content and body fat distribution, as well as transient changes in insulin sensitivity are known to occur during growth and puberty (Cruz et al. 2005). Dramatic psychological changes also occur during this period. Likewise, lifestyle and healthy/unhealthy behaviors are established during these years, which may influence adult behavior and health status.