Effects of concurrent training and detraining on leptin and insulin concentrations in obese children

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of 12 weeks (3 days/week) concurrent training followed by 4 weeks detraining on leptin and insulin levels in obese boys. Methods: The 24 obese children boys (body mass index> 28 kg/m2, age 11- 13 year old) were randomly divided into two experimental (n=12), and control (n=12) groups. Experimental group participated 12 weeks concurrent training (3 days/ week). Intensity, duration and volume of concurrent trainings were gradually and progressively increased. At the end of the 12 week concurrent training, EG participants were asked to return to their daily lifestyle for the future 4 weeks without any exercise training (detraining phase). Blood samples were collected in three stages (baseline, after 12 week's combined endurance and resistance training and 4 week's detraining in experimental group; baseline and after 12 weeks in control group). Results: Data analysis showed that 12 weeks concurrent training leads to significant decrease of leptin and insulin in Experimental group compared to Control group (p<0.05). It was shown that at the end of 16th week (following 4wk detraining) insulin and leptin again significantly increased (p<0.05). Conclusion: These results suggest that concurrent training leads to significant decrease of leptin and insulin in obese children. The results suggest that adaptations resulting from regular exercises following 4wk detraining can be reversible. Therefore, recommend that overweight and obese children should be encouraged for regular participation in exercise training program.