THE IMPACT OF MODERATE-INTENSITY AEROBIC EXERCISE ON THE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF OBESITY: A CASE STUDY OF OBESE BOYS AGED 12–16 YEARS IN PESHAWAR DISTRICT

Abstract

Obesity among adolescents is a growing global health concern, with escalating prevalence linked to sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits. In Pakistan, particularly in Peshawar, rising obesity rates among boys aged 12–16 necessitate effective interventions. This study investigates the impact of a 12-week moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program on obesity-related indicators in obese boys from Peshawar District. Using a quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design, 50 obese boys (BMI ≥ 95th percentile) were recruited via purposive sampling. The intervention included 45-minute aerobic sessions (brisk walking, jogging, cycling) five times weekly at 50–70% maximum heart rate. Anthropometric measurements (BMI, waist circumference, body fat percentage) were recorded before and after the intervention. Results demonstrated significant reductions in BMI (mean difference: -1.4 kg/m², *p* < 0.001), waist circumference (-3.8 cm, *p* < 0.001), and body fat percentage (-2.4%, *p* < 0.001). Private school participants showed greater improvements than government school students (BMI: -1.5 vs. -1.2 kg/m², *p* = 0.023), suggesting socioeconomic influences. Strong negative correlations (*r* ≈ -0.55 to -0.62, *p* < 0.001) between exercise adherence and obesity markers highlighted the importance of consistency. Effect sizes (Cohen’s *d* = 0.58–0.72) indicated moderate-to-large clinical benefits. This study concludes that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise significantly reduces obesity markers in adolescent boys, advocating for school-based interventions and community awareness programs in Peshawar. Limitations include a small sample size and short duration, warranting further longitudinal research. These findings support integrating structured aerobic exercise into adolescent obesity management strategies in similar urban settings.

Keywords: Adolescent obesity, aerobic exercise, BMI, waist circumference, Peshawar, physical activity intervention.