Link Between Aerobic Fitness, Body Fat, and Mental Health in Children

Recent research highlights the significant relationship between physical health and mental wellness in children. Obesity rates have increased over the past decades, paralleled by a rise in mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, yet studies specific to children remain limited. A study conducted by Northeastern University researchers investigated how body composition and physical fitness influence mental health in preadolescent children.

The study, published in JAMA Network Open and spanning from 2019 to 2023, involved over 200 healthy children aged 8 to 11. Participants completed standardized questionnaires assessing feelings of anxiety and depression. Their body composition was measured, focusing on the amount of adipose tissue—body fat surrounding internal organs.

Physical fitness was evaluated through maximal treadmill exercise tests, where children wore masks to measure oxygen consumption during exertion, determining their fitness levels. The researchers controlled for factors like socioeconomic status, puberty, and sex.

Findings indicated that children with lower body fat and higher aerobic fitness reported fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression, even when these symptoms were below clinical thresholds. Conversely, children with higher adipose tissue and lower fitness levels showed increased mental health symptoms. Importantly, these results were observed in children without any diagnosed mental health conditions, suggesting that fitness and body composition influence mental health on a broader spectrum.

The study also explores biological mechanisms—such as increased inflammation from excess adipose tissue—that may contribute to negative mental health outcomes. Conversely, regular exercise and good fitness levels provide biological benefits that could positively impact mood and mental wellness.

While the study establishes a correlation, it does not prove causation, paving the way for further research. The authors suggest that targeted interventions to improve fitness and reduce body fat might serve as effective strategies to support children’s mental health.

This research underscores the importance of promoting physical activity and healthy body composition from a young age to enhance mental well-being and prevent future mental health challenges.

Source: [https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-aerobic-body-fat-mental-health.html]