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Physical Performance of Children who are Overweight

Pediatric Physical Therapy published research on 70 children (5-9 years old) comparing overweight/obese children to healthy weight children with regards to gait, balance, muscle strength, and physical activity.  The results indicated that when compared to peers of healthy weight  the children who were overweight/obese exhibited the following:

  • a significantly increased base of support while walking
  • decreased one leg stance test 
  • decreased vertical jump height 

Reference: Pathare, Neeti PT, PhD; Haskvitz, Esther M. PT, PhD, ATC; Selleck, Marjane PT, DPT, MS, PCS. Comparison of Measures of Physical Performance Among Young Children Who Are Healthy Weight, Overweight, or Obese. Pediatric Physical Therapy: Fall 2013 – Volume 25 – Issue 3 – p 291-296. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0b013e31829846bd 

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