Modeling Fitness Variable Responses to Training in Prepubescent Children

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Pediatric Fitness

Background:

• Optimizing training programs for prepubescent children is crucial for developing physical fitness.
• Understanding how different training modalities affect strength and aerobic capacity in youth is essential for effective programming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop multiple linear regression models to predict fitness variable responses to various training interventions in prepubescent children.
• To evaluate the efficacy of different training designs (strength, aerobic, concurrent) on performance outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Two hundred forty-five healthy prepubescent children (aged 10.9 ± 0.5 years) were randomized into six groups: strength (S), aerobic (A), intrasession aerobic and strength (AS), intrasession strength and aerobic (SA), concurrent training (CT), and control (C).
• Multiple linear regression models were created using pretraining variables, body fat percentage, and body mass index to predict changes in V[Combining Dot Above]O2max and various strength-based performances.
• Training interventions lasted 8 weeks.

Main Results:

• The predictive models explained a high percentage of variance in fitness outcomes: 82% for V[Combining Dot Above]O2max, 98% for 1 kg ball-throw, 96% for 3 kg ball-throw, 92% for countermovement jump, 93% for standing long jump, and 98% for 20 m sprint.
• The models demonstrated the ability to predict performance changes with high confidence levels (CI 95%).

Conclusions:

• The developed predictive models offer a novel tool for professionals to evaluate training effectiveness and individualize exercise prescriptions for prepubescent children.
• These findings support teachers, coaches, and professionals in enhancing the efficacy and personalization of training programs to improve children's fitness.