KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Parents can learn more about their overweight children’s physical fitness and how to reduce fat in a summer project at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.
UT researchers will compare how the body uses fuels, such as fats and carbohydrates, in overweight and lean children during exercise.
From the data, researchers hope to develop exercise guidelines to help overweight children burn fat more efficiently.
The project is being conducted by Dr. Ed Howley, a professor of exercise science, and Glen Duncan, a graduate student.
Each participating child’s fitness level will be tested, using an exercise bicycle to measure rates of oxygen use and levels of exertions.
The children will not be singled out or isolated because of their weight, Duncan said. Parents will receive information concerning their child’s current fitness level, body-fat composition and ability to use fat during exercise, he said.
The National Center for Health Statistics says most 8-year olds who weigh more than 70 pounds may be considered overweight.
Information about enrolling a child is available at 423-974-5091.
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Contact: Glen Duncan (423-974-5091)