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CV fitness among children continues to decline
DALLAS — CV endurance in children has significantly declined since 1964, according to research presented at AHA 2013.
Data from 50 studies on running fitness conducted between 1964 and 2010 were used to examine the decline of children’s CV fitness worldwide. The studies involved more than 25 million children aged 9 to 17 years from 28 countries. CV endurance was measured by running distance in a set time or how long it took to run a set distance. Tests were 5 to 15 minutes or covered 0.5 to 2 miles.
Researchers found that the decline in children’s fitness levels was similar between sexes, age groups and regions, but varied from country to country. In the United States, CV endurance decreased an average 6% per decade between 1970 and 2000. Globally, CV endurance consistently declined by 5% every decade. Researchers estimate today’s children are 15% less fit than their parents were at their age and run a mile about a 90 seconds slower.
Social, behavioral, physical, psychological and physiological factors contribute to the decline of CV fitness in children. Additionally, 30% to 60% of declines in endurance can be explained by increases in fat mass, according to researchers.
“We need to help to inspire children and youth to develop fitness habits that will keep them healthy now and into the future. They need to choose a range of physical activities they like or think they might like to try, and they need to get moving,” Grant Tomkinson, PhD, senior lecturer at the University of South Australia’s School of Health Sciences, and colleagues concluded.
For more information:
Tomkinson G. Abstract #13498. Presented at: the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions; Nov. 16-20, 2013; Dallas.
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
