Programs should be well supervised, with children aware of specific rules and regulations. Stop exercising if a child reports feeling, or appears to be, dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous, in pain, etc. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends children with asthma exercise when they are feeling well. Start slowly and gradually develop a cardiovascular program. Consult the child's physician.
Regular participation helps to expend energy, reduce body fat, and improve diabetes control.
Instructors should be well versed on diabetes, its symptoms, treatment, and emergency protocol. Instructors should maintain open communication with the child's physician whenever possible. The benefits of regular exercise participation for the obese child are not limited to weight loss. Other benefits include reduction of blood serum cholesterol and blood pressure and increase in positive self-image. Lead obese children through a slow, progressive exercise program to ensure continued participation.