ExerciseObesity

The importance of exercise in any weight control program

In the short term, exercise alone or exercise plus diet result in more weight loss than diet alone (10 kg [4.5 lb] vs 2 kg [1 lb]).

Here are some other highlights from an article by Dr. John Jakicic, Director of the Physical Activity and Weight Management Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh.

To reduce the risk of chronic disease in adulthood

  • At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity above usual activity most days of the week.

To help manage body weight and prevent gradual unhealthy body weight gain in adulthood

  • ~60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity most days of the week.

To sustain weight loss in adulthood

  • 60 to 90 minutes of daily moderate physical activity

If you’re older or haven’t exercised much, consult a healthcare provider before participating in this level of activity.

Other related articles from the Treatment of Obesity Conference last July are posted here on Medscape.

12/28/06 19:30 JR

Hi, I’m JR

John Russo, Jr., PharmD, is president of The MedCom Resource, Inc. Previously, he was senior vice president of medical communications at www.Vicus.com, a complementary and alternative medicine website.