Abstract
[Purpose] We evaluated lower limb strength and balance ability of obese children, and compared them with those of non-obese children in order to understand the physical characteristics of obese children and to contribute to an exercise therapy program. [Subjects] The subjects were 13 obese and 60 non-obese elementary school children aged 9 to 12. [Method] Isometric knee extension strength and one leg standing time with eyes open and closed of all the subjects were assessed. [Results] The one leg standing time with eyes closed of obese children was significantly lower than that of the others, but no differences in isometric knee extension strength or one leg standing time with eyes open were found. [Conclusion] It can be considered that the physique of obese children is a factor of one leg standing time with eyes closed, since knee extension strength was not. In considering exercise therapy for obese children, a program of exercise therapy aiming to improve the physique should be considered rather than simple balance training alone.
