The Role of Exercise Training on Insulin Sensitivity in Overweight and Obese Adolescents

The increase in childhood obesity prevalence over the past 30 years has become a public health concern for children and adolescents. Obese children have an increased risk for developing a myriad of chronic metabolic diseases and other health complications. While the effect of obesity on development of insulin resistance has been well documented, the purpose of this mini-review is to examine the role of exercise training on insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese adolescents. Previous studies have investigated the effects of different exercise training modalities on insulin resistance and cardio metabolic health in obese adolescents. Results from these studies demonstrate significant improvements in insulin sensitivity, but specific exercise modalities revealing the most benefit differ depending on sex of the adolescent. Study results recommend that exercise training should be included as an integral component of type 2 diabetes management in youth. While the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Sports Medicine include broad physical activity guidelines, recommendations regarding differences in exercise modality by age or sex are not specified. Further investigations are needed to provide a clear consensus on the independent effects of exercise on insulin resistance by sex and exercise modality.