Effect of high intensity circuit training on functional capacity and respiratory muscle strength in children who are overweight and obese: an experimental study

Background: Literature suggests that there is an increasing prevalence of obesity in children which results in reduced quality of life, increased risk of long-term health problems such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), diabetes mellitus, fatty liver etc. and its tracking into adulthood. Recent studies have also emphasized on the prevalence of reduced functional capacity and respiratory muscle strength in this population. Hence, the objective of this study was to find the effectiveness of high intensity circuit training on functional capacity and respiratory muscle strength by the end of 6 weeks. Methods: This study included a total of 100 participants whose baseline measurements of functional capacity and respiratory muscle strength were recorded using 6-minute walk distance and pressure gauge manometer respectively. They were given high intensity circuit training for 6 weeks after which their post measurement data was recorded and statistical analysis was done. Results: The results of this study showed a significant improvement in functional capacity and respiratory muscle strength after 6 weeks of high intensity circuit training with a p<0.001. Conclusions: The present study shows that 6-week high intensity circuit training was highly effective in increasing functional capacity and in improving their respiratory muscle strength in overweight and obese children.