High-Intensity Functional Concurrent Training for Physical Fitness, Body Composition, and Psychological Outcomes in...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Exercise Science
• Sports Medicine
• Child Psychology

Background:

• High-intensity functional concurrent training (HIFCT) shows benefits in adults for strength, fitness, body composition, and well-being.
• Limited research exists on HIFCT's effects in school-aged children.
• Understanding HIFCT's impact on this demographic is crucial for promoting physical activity in schools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an 8-week HIFCT program's effects on muscular strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and body composition in 10-12-year-old children.
• To assess the program's impact on anxiety, stress, and self-esteem in the same age group.
• To explore the feasibility and safety of implementing HIFCT in a school environment.

Main Methods:

• An 8-week HIFCT program was designed for children aged 10-12 years.
• Physical fitness, anthropometric measures, and psychological outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention.
• Validated field-based tests and questionnaires were utilized for data collection.

Main Results:

• Data collection and analysis are pending completion of the 8-week intervention.
• Anticipated results will detail changes in strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem.
• The study aims to establish the safety and feasibility of HIFCT for children.

Conclusions:

• This study protocol provides a framework for evaluating HIFCT in school-aged children.
• Findings are expected to contribute novel evidence on HIFCT's benefits and applicability in educational settings.
• The research may inform future physical education curricula and childhood health initiatives.