The influence of planned physical activity in preschoolers on subsequent energy balance

Background: Obesity is a chronic disease and is defined as having excess fat. When energy intake exceeds energy expenditure obesity occurs. The benefits of spontaneous physical activity (PA) are well documented. However, it is unknown if the caloric expenditure of planned physical activity in children will be offset by them spontaneously increasing their caloric intake or decreasing their subsequent daily activity during the rest of the day. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to monitor preschooler’s PA and caloric intake after planned PA in the morning. Methods: Eight children ages 4-5 were included in this cross over design study. In a randomized fashion, on one occasion participants were guided through a thirty-minute structured physical activity session. On the other visit (control), the children were read a story. On both days daily physical activity levels were measured with the use of an accelerometer and caloric intake was assessed. Repeated measured ANOVA was used with a standard deviation of p≤ 0.05. Results: There was a significant deference reported between conditions in the amount of time children spent in vigorous+, vigorous, and total active time immediately after the planned physical activity. No significant differences were found when comparing end of day activity levels between conditions. No significant differences were found when comparing post condition and end of day active time between conditions. No significance was found when comparing calories (kcals) consumed versus calories (kcals) burned. Conclusion: Planned physical activity increases the amount of time children spend in vigorous+ and vigorous PA time immediately after planned physical activity. And increases total active time at the end of the day. Planned PA can increase active time, with no concomitant increase in the food intake to offset energy expenditure