Does a Physical Activity Intervention on Classroom-Based Ergometers During Teaching Lessons Effect Physical Fitness, Body Composition, and Health-Related Blood Parameters? A Pilot Cluster Randomized Controlled Study

Astrid Reif, Markus Hackl, Alfred Nimmerichter, Stefan Oesen, Harald Tschan, Norbert Bachl, Christoph Triska, Barbara Wessner

Publications: Contribution to journalArticlePeer Reviewed

Abstract

Background: Time constraints comprise one limiting factor for implementing school-based physical activity programs. The aim of this pilot cluster randomized controlled study was to explore the effects of a cycle ergometer intervention during regular lessons on physical fitness, body composition, and health-related blood parameters. Methods: Participants attended one of 2 classes selected from one school, which were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 23, 11.2 [0.5] y) consisting of cycling on classroombased ergometers during 3 lessons per week at a self-selected intensity and a control group (n = 21, 11.3 [0.5] y) not receiving any treatment. Prior to and after the 5-month intervention period, physical fitness (with ventilatory threshold as primary outcome), body composition, and parameters of glucose and lipid metabolism were assessed. Results: A significant time x group interaction was revealed for ventilatory threshold (P = .035), respiratory compensation point (P = .038), gross efficiency (P < .001), maximal aerobic power (P = .024), triglycerides (P = .041), and blood glucose levels (P = .041) with benefits for the intervention group. Peak oxygen uptake and body composition were not affected. Conclusions: Children's aerobic capacity benefited from the low-intensity school-based cycling intervention, while body composition and most blood parameters were not affected. The intervention using cycle ergometers is a feasible and time-saving strategy to elevate submaximal physical fitness.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)490-499
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health
Volume19
Issue number7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jul 2022

Austrian Fields of Science 2012

  • 303030 Training science

Keywords

  • Keywords
  • cycling
  • aerobic physical fi tness
  • peak oxygen uptake
  • school based
  • bike desks
  • HOMEOSTASIS MODEL ASSESSMENT
  • INSULIN-RESISTANCE
  • ENERGY-EXPENDITURE
  • BIKE DESKS
  • CHILDREN
  • EFFICIENCY
  • EXERCISE
  • SCHOOL
  • ADOLESCENTS
  • PROGRAM
  • Cycling
  • aerobic physical fitness

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