Pedometer-based walking programs — even without going on a diet — result in modest weight loss.

Researchers from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor reviewed studies in English and Japanese published over about 13 years.

• The results from 9 studies of overweight or obese and sedentary individuals were re-evaluated (meta-analysis).
• The number of participants in each study ranged from 15 to 106, for a total of 307 participants
• 73% were women.
• The studies did not include any dietary changes.
• The duration of the studies ranged from 4 weeks to 1 year.

And, the results.

• Average weight loss over the course of the studies was 1.27 kg (2.8 pounds).
• On average, participants lost 0.05 kg (0.1 lb) per week.

The bottom line?
People who walk more tend to be thinner than those who walk less — even when there’s no change in diet. The authors concluded that counting steps is one way to ensure you walk more.

More on the benefits of using a pedometer and walking can be found here.

1/18/08 22:40 JR