A Multicomponent Physical Activity Intervention Effect on Weekly Steps and Physical Fitness in Preadolescents

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a multicomponent physical activity intervention on physical fitness, steps number, and body mass index in preadolescent children. Children aged 8 to 10 years were recruited from a primary school setting and randomly allocated to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group participated in a structured physical activity program and motivational strategies lasting 16 weeks, while the control group continued their regular daily routines and school activities without additional intervention activities provided by the study. The physical activity program consisted of planned sessions designed to develop muscular strength, cardiorespiratory endurance, speed, and coordination through age-appropriate exercises and games. Assessments were conducted before and after the intervention period. Physical fitness was evaluated using the standing broad jump (lower-body muscular power), handgrip strength (upper-body muscular strength), and the 20-meter shuttle run test (cardiorespiratory fitness). Body mass index was calculated using measured body mass and height. The primary objective of the study was to determine whether children participating in the intervention demonstrate greater improvements in physical fitness and body mass index compared with children in the control group.