Resource: Podcast: Fitness Talk with Cristina Cadenas

Welcome to the "Fitness Talk" podcast, where we delve into essential topics on physical activity and health. In this episode, we’re tackling a critical question: Why is good physical fitness so important in children and adolescents, and how does it impact the prevention of non-communicable diseases?

To explore this topic in depth, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Cristina Cadenas Sánchez, a renowned researcher in the field of physical activity and child health. Despite her young age, Cristina has built an outstanding research career, supported by prestigious grants and multiple scientific awards. She holds a Ph.D. in Biomedicine from the University of Granada and is currently a Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellow—one of the most prestigious research grants worldwide. She is a visiting scholar at Stanford University and works at Imperial College London, where she continues researching the links between physical activity, obesity, and metabolic health in children.

Cristina has published numerous studies on the benefits of good physical fitness in youth and its impact on overall well-being. Her awards include the Early Career Award in Childhood Obesity from the European Association for the Study of Obesity. In this episode, we cover:

What does good physical fitness mean for children and adolescents? Cristina explains the key aspects of assessing fitness at these critical stages of growth and development.
Benefits of physical activity on physical and mental health: Based on Cristina's research, good fitness not only impacts the body but also the mind, enhancing emotional and cognitive aspects.
Prevention of non-communicable diseases: Adequate fitness levels can be key in preventing diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues from an early age.
The role of teachers in promoting physical activity: Cristina shares effective strategies that can help teachers encourage regular physical activity among their students, fostering a culture of health and wellness from the classroom.

Cristina shares her latest research findings and her experience promoting healthy lifestyles among young people. This conversation is an invaluable resource for parents, educators, and health professionals who want to better understand how good physical fitness can influence quality of life and disease prevention in young people.

Join us for this inspiring discussion, where we explore how healthy habits in childhood and adolescence can make a big difference in the future health of our youth. Don’t miss this valuable conversation that will encourage you to promote an active and healthy lifestyle for the next generation.

Authors: University of Cadiz