Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 12 to 18

Progressive Neuromuscular Stabilization vs. Aerobic Exercise for Obesity in Children

Official title: Effects of Progressive Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercises Versus Aerobic Exercises on Body Composition and Postural Balance in Children With Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Run by Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa · NCT07744022 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether technology-assisted progressive neuromuscular stabilization exercises can improve body composition and balance in children with obesity, compared with standard aerobic exercise.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages12 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
Enrollment54 (estimated)
SponsorIstanbul University - Cerrahpasa
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Istanbul)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJuly 3, 2026
Main results expectedJanuary 15, 2027
Study endsAugust 15, 2027
Registry record updatedAugust 4, 2026
Trial IDNCT07744022 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Children aged 12–18 years with obesity (Class I or II by CDC percentiles) who can perform basic balance tasks and have guardian consent with participant assent.

Probably not a fit

Those with Class III obesity or orthopedic, neurological, psychiatric conditions, recent injuries, or other contraindications to exercise may not benefit from this intervention.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

The trial compares two exercise approaches for children aged 12–18 with obesity: Progressive Neuromuscular Stabilization (PNS) with technology support versus conventional aerobic exercise. It aims to see which program better improves body composition and postural balance. The study will recruit participants from Istanbul University-Ccerrahpasa, applying clear inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure safety and relevance. Interventions focus on neuromuscular control, core stability, and overall movement quality compared to aerobic fitness training. Outcomes will inform whether neuromuscular training with tech aids offers added value for pediatric obesity management.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved balance, core stability, and body composition, potentially supporting greater activity participation.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research suggests neuromuscular training can improve balance and movement control, though technology-assisted PNS in pediatric obesity remains relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 12 to 18 years
* Classified as having Class I obesity (Body Mass Index \[BMI\] ≥95th percentile and \<120% of the 95th percentile for age and sex) or Class II obesity (BMI ≥120% and \<140% of the 95th percentile for age and sex), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) age- and sex-specific growth charts.
* Able to maintain a single-leg stance on the non-dominant leg with eyes closed for less than 30 seconds.
* Written informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian, and assent obtained from the participant.
* Willing and able to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Classified as having Class III obesity (Body Mass Index \[BMI\] ≥140% of the 95th percentile for age and sex).
* Presence of an orthopedic condition that would prevent participation in the exercise program.
* History of any injury or surgery within the previous 6 months.
* Presence of a chronic neurological disorder.
* Presence of a psychiatric disorder.
* Presence of a severe cognitive impairment.
* Presence of cardiovascular disease.

Where it's running

  • Istanbul University- Cerrahpasa
    Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.