Obesity and Physical Activity

Physical activity is an important lifestyle intervention for weight loss/maintenance. Although seemingly modest, there is a dose-response relationship between activity and weight loss, and physical activity promotes long-term weight loss and prevents weight regain. The benefits of physical activity are also observed in the severely obese and those who have undergone bariatric surgery. Independent of the effect of physical activity on body weight, engagement in physical activity that results in improved cardiorespiratory fitness can contribute to reductions in health risks. Progression to an adequate dose of physical activity needs to be incorporated into weight control interventions.