Results Strong evidence was found for an inverse association between MF and total and central adiposity , and CVD and metabolic risk factors .
Strong evidence was also found for a positive association between MF and bone health and self-esteem .
Conclusion The findings of this review highlight the importance of developing MF in youth for a number of health-related benefits
Background Physical fitness during childhood and adolescence has been identified as an important determinant of current and future health status .
While research has traditionally focused on the association between cardio-respiratory fitness and health outcomes , the association between muscular fitness ( MF ) and health status has recently received increased attention .
Objective The aim of this systematic review and meta- analysis was to evaluate the potential physiological and psychological benefits associated with MF among children and adolescents .
Physical fitness of obese school children in Hat Yai, southern Thailand.
259 primary school children ( average age 9.2 years ) were r and omly selected from three groups of children whose weights-for-height were 90 - 110 % ( normal 111 ) , > 110 - 120 % ( over weight 25 ) , and > 120 % ( obesity 123 ) of reference values for Bangkok children . They underwent physical fitness tests which included measurement of speed ( 50 meters run ) , flexibility ( sit-reach ) , abdominal strength and endurance ( 30 seconds sit-up ) , vital capacity ( spirometer ) , and indirect maximum oxygen uptake ( VO2 max-submaximal bicycle ergometer ) .  The results showed that all physical fitness tests were statistically significantly different ( p < 0.05 ) between groups , except for flexibility in boys . But for the girls , only 50 meters run , sit-up and VO2 max showed statistically significant differences ( p < 0.05 ) . In the comparison of physical fitness tests between sexes , normal weight boys did better than girls ( p < 0.05 ) for all tests except flexibility . There were no statistically significant differences between sexes in overweight and obese children . This study demonstrated that physical fitness of obese children was worse than that of normal children in both sexes , especially as measured by 50 meters run , sit-up and VO2 max tests . Thus , promotion of exercise  in obese children should be stimulated to develop better physical fitness and weight reduction . In comparison of physical fitness between the sexes , boys had better physical fitness than girls , significant in the normal weight group only . There is no definite explanation as to why increase in weight results in no difference of physical fitness between sexes . Lifestyle , physical skills , and genetic determinants should be considered for interpretation of physical fitness
Results Strong evidence was found for an inverse association between MF and total and central adiposity , and CVD and metabolic risk factors .
Strong evidence was also found for a positive association between MF and bone health and self-esteem .
Conclusion The findings of this review highlight the importance of developing MF in youth for a number of health-related benefits
Background Physical fitness during childhood and adolescence has been identified as an important determinant of current and future health status .
While research has traditionally focused on the association between cardio-respiratory fitness and health outcomes , the association between muscular fitness ( MF ) and health status has recently received increased attention .
Objective The aim of this systematic review and meta- analysis was to evaluate the potential physiological and psychological benefits associated with MF among children and adolescents .