All day Thursday I fielded questions from clients and others about the Wednesday (3-24-10) Commercial Appeal story on a JAMA study that said women who exercise less than 1 hour a day gained weight, while those who did an hour or more stayed thin.
“What do you think about that?
“What’s your reaction?
“IS IT TRUE? Because I don’t have an hour a day.”
The headline was “Study: Women need exercise to stay thin”
My reaction to the headline? Well, Duh.
Look, I didn’t read the study report (boring) but I did read the abstract. Here’s what I think:
1. The women in the study were not on diets – it is easier to lose weight when you eat less than it is from exercising
2. There was no distinction between muscle and fat in the weight gained – gaining muscle is a good thing
3. The study covered moderate activity – exercising intensely would burn calories faster
4. You don’t have to do an hour all at one time – spread it out some. And it doesn’t have to be formal exercise – walking briskly for short periods or taking the stairs for 2-3 flight journeys all count
5. Time is often just an excuse – priority is the real issue. Make exercise a pleasure and a priority and you will find the time. The following day, this story was in the same paper about how a mom of 2 with a full time job found a way to exercise.
6. Other studies have consistently shown health benefits from exercise regardless of weight or weight loss, and significant benefits from losing as little as 5-10% of needed loss