Cardiorespiratory fitness in Chinese children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) has become a significant focus in the field of public health. CRF is considered a strong predictor of health outcomes. However, cardiorespiratory fitness levels of children and adolescents are declining.

Aims: (1) To analyse the cardiorespiratory fitness levels of children and adolescents in China, focusing on maximum oxygen uptake (VO₂max), maximum heart rate (HRmax), peak oxygen uptake (Peak VO₂) and 20-metre shuttle run test (20 m-SRT). (2) To provide baseline data, with the goal of supporting the development of sports programs, intervention strategies, and public health decision-making.

Subjects and methods: A meta-analysis was conducted using 30 studies selected from five databases.

Results: The average performance on 20 m-SRT for Chinese children and adolescents was 34.67 laps, with a VO₂max of 46.47 ml/kg/min, HRmax of 195.02 bpm, and Peak VO₂ of 48.58 ml/kg/min. Boys outperformed girls in VO₂max, 20 m-SRT, and HRmax, although the differences in HRmax and Peak VO₂ were not statistically significant. Tibetan children showed better performance than Han children in three indicators with no significant differences found.

Conclusion: Cardiorespiratory fitness in Chinese children and adolescents is within a healthy range but not optimal. Boys generally perform better than girls, and Tibetan children outperform Han children.