What is the role of physical activity in reducing childhood obesity?

It is no secret that childhood obesity is curbed when programs are available to promote proper dietary habits and increased physical activity. Farley and Dowell (2014) note that between 50% and 90% of adolescents do not engage in the government’s definition of appropriate physical activity.  The authors conducted a study in New York City that evaluated the prevalence of childhood obesity in public school children when they participated in supplemental nutrition and physical activity programs.

(New York Department of Health, 2014)

The above graph notes a decline in the percentage of childhood obesity in school children of all ages In New York City over time. The authors suggest the decline is attributed to the elimination of vending machines, decreases in the amount and types of foods consumed, increased physical activity, and food marketing and packaging (Farley and Dowell, 2014).

Reference:

Farley, T. A., & Dowell, D. (2014). Preventing childhood obesity: What are we doing  

     right?. American Journal Of Public Health, 104(9), 1579-1583.