Weight loss
Weight loss is something many adults struggle with. It is a science that is specific to each individual body type. Between diet and exercise, it is a constant balance. If eating healthy and frequent exercise are not showing results, we get frustrated. So how do we know how much exercise we need in order to lose weight?
According to Caroline Wilbert from her article regarding weight loss, “Recommendations Call for 250 Minutes of Physical Activity a Week for Significant Weight Loss, 150 Minutes a Week to Maintain Weight.”
- I know what everyone is thinking. That is 50 minutes of exercise 5 days a week, that is impossible! Yes, it is difficult to get to the gym 5 days in a week. But working out regularly is essential to lose a significant amount of weight. Adding a regular workout schedule to your routine can help you lose the weight you’ve been wanting to. Overweight and obese adults must keep 250 minutes in order to reach healthy goals.
Keeping the Weight Off
Many adults suffer another weight category – maintaining. Wilbert says, “If you are trying to maintain your weight rather than lose, you may still be OK with the 30-minute workouts.” Because you aren’t looking for a significant amount of fat loss, 30 minutes a day will keep the weight off. “The ACSM recommends that adults participate in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity to prevent significant weight gain. The report also recommends strength training as part of the exercise regimen.” (WebMD)
These recommendations from the article are published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. They are in line with the recent recommendations published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Weight management is an important public health issue, the report says. More than 66% of U.S. adults are either overweight or obese. People can reduce their risk for chronic diseases with as little as a 2% to 3% reduction in excess body weight.
By Caroline Wilbert
WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
© 2009 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
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