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January 25, 2026Open Access

Comprehensive effects of aerobic training and dietary intervention on anthropometric and body composition parameters in obese adolescents

YCYahui ChangShanxi University BZBo ZhouShanxi University YZYin Zhang⋆Westlake University

Key Points

The study aims to assess the effects of aerobic training and dietary intervention on obesity parameters in adolescents.
Retrospective analysis of 129 obese adolescents treated between January 2021 and December 2024.
Participants were divided into a control group (aerobic exercise only) and an observation group (aerobic exercise with dietary intervention).
Both groups completed a 12-week structured exercise program.
Anthropometric parameters, body composition, and physical fitness were assessed before and after the intervention.
The observation group showed greater reductions in body mass index, waist circumference, body fat percentage, and visceral fat area (P < .01).
Improvements in lean body mass and physical fitness measures (muscular endurance, flexibility, agility) were more significant in the observation group.
Combined aerobic and dietary interventions resulted in synergistic benefits for weight and fitness outcomes.

Abstract

Adolescent obesity has become a growing global health concern, contributing to the early development of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the comprehensive effects of aerobic training combined with dietary intervention on anthropometric indices, body composition, and functional outcomes in obese adolescents. This retrospective study analyzed adolescents with obesity who received treatment between January 2021 and December 2024. A total of 129 adolescents with obesity who received treatment between January 2021 and December 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. Participants were assigned to a control group (aerobic exercise only, n = 61) or an observation group (aerobic exercise combined with nutritional intervention, n = 68). Both groups underwent a 12-week structured exercise program, while the observation group additionally received individualized nutritional guidance tailored to caloric needs and macronutrient balance. Anthropometric parameters, body composition, cardiopulmonary function, and physical fitness were assessed before and after the intervention. After 12 weeks, the observation group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in body mass index, waist circumference, body fat percentage, and visceral fat area compared with the control group (all P < .01). In addition, lean body mass, step test performance, vital capacity, and multiple measures of physical fitness, including muscular endurance, flexibility, and agility, showed more pronounced improvement in the observation group. These findings indicate that the combination of aerobic exercise and dietary intervention produces synergistic benefits, resulting in more effective reductions in adiposity and enhanced cardiopulmonary and physical performance. However, the retrospective and non-randomized design may limit the interpretation of causality. Integrating structured nutritional management with exercise training may represent an optimal, non-pharmacological strategy for the prevention and treatment of adolescent obesity.

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