%0 Journal Article
%T Does a Physical Activity Intervention on Classroom-Based Ergometers During Teaching Lessons Effect Physical Fitness, Body Composition, and Health-Related Blood Parameters? A Pilot Cluster Randomized Controlled Study.
%A Reif A
%A Hackl M
%A Nimmerichter A
%A Oesen S
%A Tschan H
%A Bachl N
%A Triska C
%A Wessner B
%J J Phys Act Health
%V 19
%N 7
%D 07 2022 1
%M 35894983
%F 3
%R 10.1123/jpah.2021-0790
%X Time constraints comprise one limiting factor for implementing school-based physical activity programs. The aim of this pilot cluster randomized controlled study was to explore the effects of a cycle ergometer intervention during regular lessons on physical fitness, body composition, and health-related blood parameters.<BR>Participants attended one of 2 classes selected from one school, which were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 23, 11.2 [0.5] y) consisting of cycling on classroom-based ergometers during 3 lessons per week at a self-selected intensity and a control group (n = 21, 11.3 [0.5] y) not receiving any treatment. Prior to and after the 5-month intervention period, physical fitness (with ventilatory threshold as primary outcome), body composition, and parameters of glucose and lipid metabolism were assessed.<BR>A significant time × group interaction was revealed for ventilatory threshold (P = .035), respiratory compensation point (P = .038), gross efficiency (P < .001), maximal aerobic power (P = .024), triglycerides (P = .041), and blood glucose levels (P = .041) with benefits for the intervention group. Peak oxygen uptake and body composition were not affected.<BR>Children's aerobic capacity benefited from the low-intensity school-based cycling intervention, while body composition and most blood parameters were not affected. The intervention using cycle ergometers is a feasible and time-saving strategy to elevate submaximal physical fitness.