Objective: To study the effect of a standardised training programme focusing on maintenance of fat free mass during weight reduction by energy reduction in obese children.
Design: Randomised trial of physical training programme and dietary advice (group A) versus dietary advice alone (group B).
Subjects: Thirty obese children and adolescents (14 group A, 16 group B) participated in the 12 week long programme; 20 children (10 group A, 10 group B) were also reassessed after one year.
Measurements: Fat free mass was estimated from the resistance index, obtained by bioelectrical impedance analysis at baseline, after four, eight, and 12 weeks in all subjects, and after one year in 20 subjects.
Results: The mean (SD) change in fat free mass was significantly different between the two groups after 12 weeks (group A, 2.68 (3.74) kg; group B, 0.43 (1.65) kg). The change in body weight after one year was inversely correlated with the change in fat free mass after 12 weeks (r = -0. 44), as assessed in the 20 subjects.
Conclusions: A standardised training programme as used in this study can prevent reduction in fat free mass during weight loss in obese children. Reduction in fat free mass during weight reduction might be a risk factor for regain of weight.