The association between vigorous physical activities and fat deposition inmale adolescents

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between p articipation in vigorous physical activities (VPA) and indicators of adipos ity and fat distribution in male adolescents. Methods: Subjects were classi fied on the basis of the number of reported 15-min periods over 3 d during which VPA were performed. Results: Body weight, fat mass, body mass index, sum of six subcutaneous skinfolds, trunk and extremity skinfolds, and trunk to extremity skinfolds ratio (T/E ratio) were all significantly and invers ely related to a higher VPA participation. Moreover, T/E ratio was signific antly lower in the subgroup reporting a mean of 7.8 15-min periods of activ ity for 3 d (equivalent to a mean of 39 min.d(-1)) compared with subjects r eporting no participation. This decrease in T/E ratio was more pronounced i n subjects reporting a mean of 13.6 15-min periods of VPA for 3 d. Conclusi on: These observations reinforce the idea that excess abdominal fat accumul ation can be prevented by regular participation in vigorous physical activi ties.