Effects of attending to a 12-week structured physical activity program on fitness and self-perception levels of obese primary schoolchildren

Introduction: Childhood obesity is a major health problem especially for schoolchildren both physically and mentally. The study was conducted to assess the effects of the structured physical activity (PA) program on the physical fitness (PF) and self-perception levels of obese schoolchildren. Materials and Methods: A total of 67 students aged 9-11 were recruited and the experimental group (n = 27) was attended to exercises once per week for 60 mins for 12 weeks. Self-perception Scale for Children and PF tests were applied as pre- and post-tests. Results: 12-week PA sessions improved obese schoolchildren’s self-perception levels in general self-worth, athletic competence, and social competence subdimensions. Fitness levels were also improved. Body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (PBF) were affected positively and the increase in experimental group’s BMI and PBF were minimal when compared to the obese (n = 20) and non-obese controls (n = 20). Aerobic fitness and muscular endurance components were significantly improved better than obese and non-obese controls. Conclusions: It was found that attending 12-week PA sessions improved obese schoolchildren’s PF and self-perception components. As a result, it is recommended that the time allocated for PA sessions in schools should be increased and attendance of the obese schoolchildren to PA should be promoted.