Adapted physical activity and aqua gymnastics as a major prevention tool in obese children

Abstract

Obesity is one of the greatest socio-health problems of our time. The World Health Organization describes overweight and obesity as a global epidemic among children. It is the fastest growing age group according the obesity, in which special attention should be paid mainly to physical activity and sport. Lack of physical activity and malnutrition contribute to the increase in chronic non-infectious diseases through a common denominator such as overweight and obesity. Addressing the problem of obesity and civilization diseases is a priority for EU governments. Changing the current situation requires the development of strategic activities and the implementation of the EU Health Program 2020 EU Health Program. This builds on other European documents such as the European Charter on Counterfeiting Obesity and the EU Action Plan on Childhood Obesity 2014-2020. Obese children need to apply applied physical activities, both in school and out-of-school physical activities. The aim of this study was to increase physical activity and thereby reduce body weight in obese children using applied physical activity, specifically aqua gymnastics. 24 obese girls aged 11-12 years were divided into two groups. Experimental sample consists from 12 girls, adhering to the basics of healthy eating and increasing physical activity in the form of adapted physical activities and aqua gymnastics. Control sample consists from 12 girls, maintenance of diet and physical activity only in physical education lessons. It has been demonstrated that the social role of applied physical activity is indisputable. The systematic use of adapted physical activities and aqua gymnastics was the main factor in reducing the weight of the monitored girls.