Aerobic and Anaerobic Fitness in Children and Youth with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

A physically fit and active lifestyle has merit for each individual. Children and youth with cerebral palsy have reduced levels of aerobic and anaerobic fitness and are challenged in participating in daily activities and in sports as a result of their mobility problems. The difficulties in mobility lead to higher energy demands when performing activities of daily living, like walking. The reduced fitness in combination with higher energy demands during walking results in a high physical strain of walking and consequently a low metabolic reserve. This can cause fatigue during walking and limited walking ability, which are among the most reported complaints in this group. As a consequence, children with CP are predisposed to inactive lifestyles and further decline in their physical fitness. Monitoring, maintaining, and improving aerobic and anaerobic fitness is therefore essential in rehabilitation of children and youth with CP in order to develop a proper fitness status, to participate in physical activity with peers, and to prevent a decreased health when aging.