Motivational Factors in Exercise Training Programs for Children

In brief: The purpose of this study was to compare the compliance rates in two exercise programs: a well-structured program for diabetic children, and a home running program prescribed by a physician for children attending a pediatric practice for well child care. Thirteen of 14 children in the first program finished, with an average attendance of 9.2 children per session. In the second program only two of five finished (24 were invited to participate). The greater success of the first program was attributed to enthusiastic and involved leadership, parent support, and feelings of accomplishment and self-esteem in the participants.