A recent study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that modest amounts of exercise may in fact be better for weight loss than a rigorous workout routine.
The study examined several slightly overweight and sedentary men in their 20s-30s for 13 weeks. The test group was told to maintain their regular routines and eating habits. Another group underwent a moderate exercise routine of 30 minutes a day (burning roughly 300 calories in each session). The third group worked out for roughly 60 minutes each day, burning 600 calories with each workout. All groups were told to maintain their normal diets.
Results showed that both of the exercising groups lost weight. Surprisingly, the group that exercises at moderate rates lost more weight than the rigorous exercisers. The 30 minute group lost an average of 7 lbs. each, while the 60 minute group only lost an average of 5 lbs.
Researchers attribute this difference to subconscious diet changes in the participants. In other words, those who exercised 60 minutes each day were more likely to overeat to compensate for the lost calories.
Dr. Silverman Comments
This title and findings of this study are a bit misleading.
The study actually tells us two things:
- If you increase your exercise routine a lot, you will eat more, making it harder to lose weight
- If you increase your exercise routine by only small amounts, you probably won’t eat more, and thus you’ll be able to shed more pounds
Exercise is not necessary for weight loss, it only accelerates it. Following a Paleo style diet (low carbohydrate diet) will guarantee safe weight loss. It’s just hard not to eat carbohydrates when you are hungry after a workout.
Related Sources:
nytimes.com