Table 1 Outcome variables and measuring instruments/procedures

Anthropometry: Height, weight, body circumferences (waist, hip, mid-arm, mid-thigh)

∙ISAK guidelines.

∙Stadiometer, electronic weighing scale and measuring tape (SECA, Germany)

Body fat %

∙Seven site skin fold measures by ISAK and ACSM guidelines.

∙Harpenden skin fold caliper.

Total and regional body composition

∙Dual energy X- ray absorptiometry (DXA) full body scan. Hologic Discovery W, DXA system.

Cardiovascular endurance/Fitness

∙6 min walk test (6MWT).

∙Queens College/McArdle Step test.

∙Exercise Electrocardiogram (ECG).

Muscle strength

∙ACSM guidelines.

∙One repetition maximum (1RM) testing with machine and free weights (Precor, USA).

Blood pressure

OMRON digital blood pressure monitor (Japan).

Heart rate

Polar heart rate monitors.

Biochemical parameters: Glycemic control (HbA1c FBS, Fasting insulin), lipid level, liver enzymes, HsCRP.

Venous blood samples with overnight fast tested in tertiary care independent laboratory.

Quality of life

SF-36 quality-of-life outcomes questionnaire. Self-administered.

Liking and wanting for different types of food

Computer-based behavioral procedure Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire (LFPQ).Self-administered.