LAUSR

“How should I apply this information?” This study provides clinically applicable information to therapists working with adolescents who are overweight or obese and therefore at increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Even when controlling for fitness, peak relative V̇O2max was lower in the overweight group than in the normal-weight group, and V̇O2max was correlated with the metabolic syndrome severity score. However, body mass does not tell the complete story. This study illustrates that the distribution of body mass, and specifically central adiposity, or trunk mass, should be considered. A simple measure of waist circumference can inform a therapist about body composition and fat distribution. With knowledge of waist circumference and fat distribution, a therapist may prescribe an exercise program to decrease body mass and specifically target central adiposity. For example, current research is underway to determine whether high-intensity interval training is superior to conventional exercise training in terms of reducing central adiposity. “What should I be mindful about when applying this information?” This study included only adolescents; thus, the results may not be generalizable to younger children. Overweight participants were fit and the presence of metabolic syndrome is minimal in fit adolescents regardless of body mass index. Current literature consistently supports aerobic exercise for improved fitness and reduced central adiposity, with and without body mass loss. However, the current literature is not definitive regarding benefits of high-intensity interval training over conventional training for reducing central adiposity, and more research is necessary. Exercise may represent one of several lifestyle changes that affect body mass and mass distribution. Benefits of improving nutrition, sleep, and other factors of health in addition to implementing a specific exercise program warrant further study.