A significant number of studies have shown that higher levels of physical activity slow the progression of the metabolic syndrome in adults. The association in youth, however, remains unclear. In this regard, this review by Steele et al. focused on this relationship, placing emphasis on recent studies that have employed objective measures of physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). After defining physical activity and CRF and providing a brief overview of the merits and limitations of using nondichotomized scores for defining metabolic health in youth, the authors reviewed the associations between physical activity, sedentary behaviour, CRF, and metabolic risk factors and discussed the mediating role of obesity in this relationship. They also provided current physical activity recommendations for youth.
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