Efficacy of circuit-based functional training on physical fitness and depression in adolescent students: a randomized controlled trial

Authors

  • Yeimer Andrés Sanclemente Aguaslimpias Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana, Mexico
  • Tamara Rial Rebullido Monmouth University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8526-6323

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v67.113961

Keywords:

Functional training, cardi-orespiratory fitness, depressive symptoms, muscle strength, circuit training, high-school

Abstract

Introduction: School-based exercise programs seem feasible strategies to combat increasing levels of physical inactivity, obesity, and depression among Colombian youth.

Objective: To analyze the effectiveness of a circuit-based function training (FT) program on the physical fitness and depression of adolescents from a public school in Medellín (Colombia).

Methodology: A randomized controlled study in a sample of 40 adolescent students (12 to 17 years) from Medellín, Colombia was proposed. Participants were assigned to the Experimental Group (EG) (n=20), which replaced the physical education class with a circuit-based FT program carried out for 12 weeks, twice a week for 60 minutes. The Control Group (CG) (n=20) continued with regular physical education classes focused on dance and choreographies. We assessed Body mass index, cardiorespiratory fitness with the Cooper test, and muscular endurance with field tests (push-ups, curl-ups, and squats). Depression symptoms were assessed using the Beck inventory.

Results: No significant changes were observed in maximum oxygen consumption, muscular endurance, or depressive symptoms after the intervention in the EG and CG (p > 0.05). No differences were observed between groups for all the variables analyzed (p > 0.05). Discussion: Future studies should consider different training variables or health alternatives at school.

Conclusions: 12 weeks of circuit-based FT did not elicit physical fitness and depression symptoms changes compared to regular physical education classes.

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Published

2025-04-17

How to Cite

Sanclemente Aguaslimpias, Y. A., & Rial Rebullido, T. (2025). Efficacy of circuit-based functional training on physical fitness and depression in adolescent students: a randomized controlled trial. Retos, 67, 1021–1030. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v67.113961

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Section

Original Research Article