Reply to: comment on: The benefits of resistance training in obese adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

We thank Dr. Zhang [1] for his interest in our literature review about the effects of resistance training (RT) programs in obese adolescents [2]. In the review, we analyzed 21 studies to evaluate the impact of RT on body mass index, body fat, waist circumference, lean mass, insulin sensitivity, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Our main findings showed that RT programs seem to be positive for obese adolescents, improving muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness and reducing body fat, waist circumference, and body mass index. Yet, we were clear to advise the reader that the results should be carefully analyzed, and some limitations were addressed, for example, (i) the small number of participants in each study; (ii) the use/comparison of different training programs (i.e., varying durations, intensities, and exercises); (iii) methodological issues (i.e., with an unclear or high risk of bias); (iv) unclear dietary control of participants; and (v) maturational-related issues. We understand that these limitations should not refrain professionals from critically appreciating our results and then designing RT programs for obese adolescents.