Impact of a Multisport Recreation Program on Fitness Markers of Youth

Team sports are frequently used in activity and obesity intervention programs for youth, and are associated with increased physical activity levels and other positive changes in fitness markers. However, constraints and disparities associated with traditional, structured team sports warrant investigation of alternative sport types that may also be associated with positive physical changes among youth. Multisport activity that combines pursuits such as swimming, biking, and running breaks from traditional sports and may offer youth alternative activities that promote fitness. The current study sought to examine the effect of a 7-week multisport activity on physical fitness markers of youth. Results showed positive physical changes in weight, muscular endurance, and resting heart rate. Results may be used to identify multisport as an option for youth activity that is effective for physical change, but may not present some of the constraints associated with structured youth sport. Incorporating multisport activities into youth programming may enable skills that can be used to pursue related activities for a lifetime, when many are past the age of team sports participation.