Continuous Exercises versus Intermittent Exercises on Postprandial Glucose, Insulin and Triglycerides in Obese Children

Background: Childhood obesity is a major and growing public health problem worldwide, leading to significant metabolic and cardiovascular complications later in life. It is strongly associated with impaired postprandial glucose regulation, hyperinsulinemia, and elevated triglyceride levels, which together indicate insulin resistance and increased cardiometabolic risk. Physical exercise is a cornerstone of obesity management, with continuous and intermittent exercise modes showing potential in improving glucose and lipid metabolism. However, comparative evidence on their specific effects in obese children remains limited, warranting further investigation.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of continuous versus intermittent exercises on postprandial glucose, insulin, and triglyceride levels in obese children.

Methods: Fifty obese children aged 12–15 years were randomly assigned to either the continuous exercise group or the intermittent exercise group. The continuous group received 30 minutes each of treadmill and cycling exercises, while the intermittent group performed short bouts of activity with rest intervals, for 12 weeks. Outcomes were measured using postprandial glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, and triglyceride levels.

Results: Both continuous and intermittent exercise programs produced significant reductions in postprandial glucose, insulin, and triglyceride levels, along with improved insulin sensitivity (p <0.05) compared to baseline. However, intergroup comparisons revealed no statistically significant differences in the magnitude of improvement between continuous and intermittent exercise groups (p >0.05).

Conclusion: Both continuous and intermittent exercises effectively improve postprandial metabolic parameters in obese children. These findings suggest that either modality may be incorporated into pediatric obesity management programs based on individual preferences, practicality, and adherence, thereby enhancing metabolic health and reducing future cardiovascular risk.