Physical Activity for Obesity

Abstract

The use of exercise training, either aerobic-or resistance-oriented, is a common intervention for inducing weight loss as well as positively manipulating the cardio metabolic risk factors prevalent with obesity. However, it is important to realize that aerobic exercise training alone does not induce substantial weight loss unless coupled with energy restriction via dietary manipulation. Resistance training can also increase daily energy expenditure, increase muscle mass, and reduce fat mass although changes in overall body mass may also be minimal. However, although exercise alone does not appear to contribute substantially to weight loss, any type of exercise appears to be a critical component of maintaining a lowered body mass after weight loss. The current state of knowledge indicates that weight loss/weight maintenance programs should incorporate both exercise and dietary interventions for optimal results and any degree of exercise is preferred over a sedentary lifestyle.