The impact of resistance training on strength and correlates of physical activity in youth

Resistance training (RT) may have a positive impact on specific correlates of physical activity (PA) with strength identified as a possible underlying mechanism. This pilot study investigated the impact of RT on strength and correlates of PA in inactive and/or obese youth. Twelve participants (aged 8.9±1.0 years) were assigned to an experimental group (EG) or control group (CG). Pre and post intervention assessments for strength, physical self-perceptions (PSPs), weight status, fundamental movement skills (FMS), and PA levels were completed. The EG participated in a twice-weekly 10-week RT programme. There were significant group x time interactions for FMS (CAMSA total P=0.016, CAMSA skill score P=0.036) and stretch stature (P 0.002) with the EG displaying larges changes than the CG. Large effect sizes for the differences in change scores between the EG and CG were evident for CAMSA total score (Hedges’ g=0.830, P=0.138), CAMSA skill score (Hedges’ g=0.895, P=0.112) and relative strength (Hedges’ g=0.825, P=0.140). This study demonstrated that a 10-week RT intervention has a positive effect on strength and FMS, and may also benefit weight status and PSPs. This study supports the development of RT interventions for inactive and/or obese children to develop these correlates, and ultimately increase PA levels.