Impaired Physical Function Associated with Childhood Obesity: How Should We Intervene?

Abstract Background: This study examined relationships between adiposity, physical functioning, and physical activity. Methods: Obese (N = 107) and healthy-weight (N = 132) children aged 10–13 years underwent assessments of percent body fat (%BF, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry); knee extensor strength (KE, isokinetic dynamometry); cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF, peak oxygen uptake by cycle ergometry); physical health-related quality of life (HRQOL); and worst pain intensity and walking capacity [six-minute walk (6MWT)]. Structural equation modelling was used to assess relationships between variables. Results: Moderate relationships were observed between %BF and (1) 6MWT, (2) KE strength corrected for mass, and (3) CRF relative to mass (r −0.36 to −0.69, p ≤ 0.007). Weak relationships were found between %BF and physical HRQOL (r −0.27, p = 0.008); CRF relative to mass and physical HRQOL (r −0.24, p = 0.003); physical activity and 6MWT (r 0.17, p = 0.004). Squared multiple correlations showed that 29.6% v...