Published Paper Details:

Introduction: The prevalence of childhood obesity and its impact on cardiovascular health have become global concerns. Elevated resting heart rate (RHR) in young individuals is a predictor of future cardiac risk; however, consistent physical activity can enhance cardiovascular fitness and autonomic nervous system function, leading to a decrease in RHR. The Indigenous Activity Intervention (IAI), which utilizes culturally relevant exercises, has demonstrated efficacy in promoting physical activity in indigenous populations. However, its effect on RHR in school-aged children remains largely unexplored. This research examines the impact of a 10-week IAI program on RHR in boys aged 12-14, addressing a critical gap in current knowledge. The results could inform public health strategies and school-based exercise initiatives aimed at mitigating cardiovascular disease risks in youth through culturally appropriate promotion of physical activity. Methods: The study employed a randomized controlled trial design, with the experimental group engaging in structured IAI and the control group receiving no intervention. The IAI comprised six indigenous activities conducted four times per week for sessions lasting 50-60 minutes. The study targeted male sedentary students (n=120) aged between 12 and 14 years. Results: The findings revealed a statistically significant correlation between the IA training program and RHR, as demonstrated by the substantial F-value [F (1,117) = 214.597, p < .05]. The eta squared value of 0.647 indicated that approximately 64.7% of the variation in RHR could be attributed to IAI. Conclusion: This study expands our understanding of the impact of structured IAI on cardiovascular health in school-aged children. The outcomes suggest that these programs can effectively reduce RHR through physiological adaptations, underscoring their potential significance in promoting cardiovascular fitness in young individuals.