Relationship between aerobic capacity and body composition in children and adolescents

Abstract

Aerobic capacity is a determinant marker of health, associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. In contrast, a high body mass index (BMI) in childhood and adolescence correlates significantly with an unfavorable cardiometabolic risk profile in adulthood. This study aims to relate aerobic capacity with anthropometric variables in children and adolescents in Madrid-Cundinamarca (Colombia). A cross-sectional, analytical correlational study was performed in 110 participants (50.9 % male, 49.1 % female), aged 10 to 17 years (13.3±2.1). VO2max (Leger) was evaluated. Body mass index and fat percentage were measured. Statistical analysis was performed with R® software. Statistical tests showed statistically significant (p<0.05) negative correlations of VO2max. vs. age (r= -0.528), weight (r= -0.477), BMI (r= -0.499) and fat percentage (r= -0.299). Aerobic capacity in children and adolescents showed an inversely proportional relationship with age, weight, BMI, and fat percentage.