THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY IN THE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF OBESITY

The United States is facing 2 major lifestyle-related epidemics that a re intricately linked: an epidemic of obesity and an epidemic of inact ivity. Multiple interactions exist between lack of physical activity a nd obesity. Increased physical activity lowers the risk of obesity, ma y favorably influence distribution of body weight, and confers a varie ty of health-related benefits even in the absence of weight loss. Phys ical activity is important for achieving proper energy balance, which is needed to prevent or reverse obesity. Not only is energy expended d uring physical activity, physical activity also has a positive effect on resting metabolic rate. Regular physical activity can improve body composition. Properly designed programs of physical activity may prese rve or even increase lean muscle mass during weight loss. Physical act ivity has also been strongly associated with maintenance of weight los s. Physical activity that expends 1,500 to 2,000 kcal/week appears nec essary to maintain weight loss. Numerous studies have shown that the c ombination of proper nutrition and regular physical activity is the mo st effective intervention for weight loss and maintenance of weight lo ss. Walking is the most convenient and logical way most obese persons can increase their physical activity. Physical activity plays multiple roles in the prevention and treatment of obesity. Dietitians and othe r health care workers who treat obese patients should understand the r ole physical activity plays in comprehensive obesity treatment as well as how to incorporate a physical activity prescription in treatment p lans for obese clients.