Weight Loss & Moderate Exercise
Weight Loss Study Summary
Women can lose weight just as effectively by moderate exercise as opposed
to intense workouts, according to a new study supported by the National
Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Prior studies had focused on
short-term weight loss. Data were lacking about the optimal degree and
amount of physical activity for long-term weight loss.
Weight Loss Study Method
The exercise dose and intensity trial involved 201 overweight but otherwise
healthy women ages 21-45. All received reduced calorie meals in addition
to being randomly assigned to one of four physical activity regimens,
which varied by intensity and duration. The regimens consisted of either
a moderate- or vigorous-intensity physical activity performed for either
a shorter (2½ to 3½ hours per week) or longer (3½
to 5 hours per week) duration. The physical activity consisted primarily
of brisk walking, and the regimens used about 1,000 or 2,000 kcal per
week.
Weight Loss Study Results
Women in all four groups lost a significant amount of body weight - about
13 to 20 pounds - and maintained their weight loss for a year. They also
improved their cardio respiratory fitness. However, the amount of weight
lost or fitness improvement was not different among the four groups.
Weight Loss Study Conclusion
Women trying to lose weight can benefit as much from a moderate physical
activity as from an intense workout.
Source: National Institutes of Health 2003
Press Release
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