Christodoulos, A.D., Flouris, A.D., Tokmakidis, S.P. 2006. Obesity and physical fitness of pre-adolescent children during the academic year and the summer period: effects of organized physical activity. Journal of Child Health Care. 10(3):199-212.

The purpose of the study was to compare measures of obesity and physical fitness in 178 elementary schoolchildren during an academic year, as well as after the summer holidays. Results demonstrated that the children's levels of physical activity improved in the academic year, with limited changes during the summer holidays. The effects of lack of exercise during the holidays were also less detrimental for those engaging in regular physical activity.

In order to combat problems with childhood obesity, it is recommended that public health interventions target policy changes, environmental planning, and educational programs at the family, school, and community levels.