title: 'Is it worth it?' A qualitative study of the beliefs of overweight and obese physically active children.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The specific circumstances and contexts that may affect overweight and obese children's participation in physical activity have thus far been given little attention. The qualitative study discussed in this paper explores the experiences of overweight and obese children and young people who have successfully increased their activity levels.
  
  
  METHODS
  The study sample was recruited from a community health and fitness scheme for children aged 5 to 16, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) at or above the 91st centile. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 58 children and young people. Data were analyzed using template analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The children increased their feelings of capability to undertake physical activity, both while on the scheme and in other physical activity settings. They valued the range of 'noncompetitive' activities available and the nonthreatening atmosphere created. The 'emotional' support offered by the instructors was perceived as being integral to their enjoyment and continued participation.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Physical activity providers need to be able to generate opportunities which allow children of any weight status to participate without fear of stigmatization or bullying. The findings of the current study suggest that to be effective what we should be focusing on is improving the physical activity experience from the child's perspective.
authors: Dept of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK.
authors: Kiara
authors: K
authors: Lewis
authors: Claire
authors: C
authors: Fraser
authors: Martin
authors: M
authors: Manby
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D015992:Body Mass Index; D001835:Body Weight; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003469:Culture; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D009043:Motor Activity; D050177:Overweight / Q000523:psychology*; D063766:Pediatric Obesity / Q000523:psychology*; D026684:Personal Autonomy; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012647:Self-Assessment