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The emergence of new weight-loss medications has prompted questions about the continued importance of exercise. While these drugs offer a new avenue for weight management, health experts emphasize that physical activity remains crucial for overall health and well-being.
“Exercise is good for everything from cognition and mental health benefits such as preventing neurocognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease to cardiovascular benefits like preventing mortality from cardiovascular disease,” explains Christina Dieli-Conwright, an associate professor at the T.H. Chan School of Public Health. She further notes the positive impact of exercise on various bodily systems, including the gastrointestinal system, and its benefits for mood, sleep, and pain management.
However, Dieli-Conwright clarifies that exercise alone is often insufficient for significant weight loss. Burning calories through exercise can be easily offset by dietary intake, and many individuals struggle with accurate calorie tracking. This is reflected in CDC data showing a high prevalence of overweight and obesity in the US, despite a significant portion of adults meeting physical activity guidelines.
Experts stress that both weight management and exercise play distinct roles in promoting health and longevity. I-Min Lee, a professor at the Chan School and Harvard Medical School, points out that while weight loss has a stronger impact on diabetes control, exercise is equally important for heart health and overall lifespan. Lee’s research has also demonstrated the significant reduction in cancer risk associated with regular exercise, even among those with a higher BMI.
For those looking to incorporate exercise into their routine, experts recommend starting small and gradually increasing activity levels. Lee suggests adding 10 minutes to existing routines, while Edward Phillips, of Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, advocates for achievable changes like increased water intake and short walks, which can naturally progress into longer durations.
Phillips highlights the importance of tangible benefits beyond weight loss, such as improved functionality and the ability to participate in activities previously avoided. Dieli-Conwright recommends incorporating both aerobic and resistance training for optimal benefits, emphasizing the importance of interrupting sedentary behavior with short bursts of activity throughout the day.
While obesity is a serious health concern, Dieli-Conwright also points to the concept of being “fit and fat,” highlighting the health benefits of exercise even in individuals who are overweight. The key takeaway is that exercise provides a multitude of benefits beyond weight loss, making it an essential component of a healthy lifestyle regardless of the availability of new weight-loss medications.
