Effects of Recreational Futsal Program on the Quality of Life of Obese Children

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood obesity is considered the most prevalent chronic disease in the child population, impacting the early onset of associated diseases. These subjects are more susceptible to psychological problems and reduced quality of life, increasing depression rates both in childhood and in adult life. Objective: To verify the effect of recreational futsal programs on the quality of life of overweight and obese children. Methodology: Thirteen overweight and obese boys aged 8-12 years participated in a 12-week recreational futsal program composed of ~80-minute sessions two times a week at an intensity greater than 80% of the maximum heart rate. Quality of life was assessed using the PedsQL 4.0 questionnaire, which assesses physical, emotional, social, and school issues. Results: No significant differences were found for anthropometric variables (P>0.05). The intervention improved the emotional dimension (68.7 ± 15.9 vs. 79.1 ± 18; P=0.03) in overweight and obese boys. Regarding the social dimension (64.4 ± 13.7 vs. 63.7 ± 23.5; P>0.05), physical (68.3 ± 24.6 vs. 75.5 ± 18.7, P>0.05), and school (71.1 ± 22.8 vs.: 72.2 ± 24.2, P>0.05) dimensions, not statistically differences were found (P>0.05). Conclusion: The recreational futsal program was effective in improving the quality of life in the emotional dimension of overweight and obese children.