Why exercise alone won’t help you lose weight
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Exercise is essential for health, but when it comes to weight loss, science shows it’s not as effective as many believe. Metabolism researchers indicate that it is hard to create a significant calorie deficit through exercise, as our bodies adapt by conserving energy elsewhere. Additionally, as we age, metabolic changes further limit calorie burn. While exercise boosts fitness, mood, and overall well-being, diet plays a much larger role in weight loss. Understanding these dynamics can help set realistic goals and focus on sustainable health strategies.
Source
Thomas DM, Bouchard C, Church T, Slentz C, Kraus WE, Redman LM, Martin CK, Silva AM, Vossen M, Westerterp K, Heymsfield SB. Why do individuals not lose more weight from an exercise intervention at a defined dose? An energy balance analysis. Obes Rev. 2012 Oct;13(10):835-47. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-789X.2012.01012.x. Epub 2012 Jun 11. PMID: 22681398; PMCID: PMC3771367.
Additional Reading
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2024/11/27/exercise-weight-loss-science/
https://gsas.harvard.edu/news/colloquy-podcast-why-exercising-more-may-not-help-you-lose-weight
https://www.vox.com/2018/1/3/16845438/exercise-weight-loss-myth-burn-calories