PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY AND OBESITY

Obesity is a major public health problem. Secular increases in the prevalence of obesity appear to be paralleled by decreases in physical activity. Although physical activity and weight are associated, the exact nature of the relationship remains uncertain. Research strongly suggests that exercise is a critical component of any program for weight control and health improvement. Potential mechanisms linking exercise and weight are discussed. For some persons, the health improvement derived from increased activity may not depend on weight loss. Modest levels of activity may be sufficient to achieve both the weight and health benefits of exercise.