
Running 5 miles or more every day, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, taking group exercises….sound familiar? Most people think this is what you have to do in order to lose weight. That’s what I thought, too. But apparently, these types of physical activities do not necessarily result in weight loss.
According to The Mayo Clinic, a not-for-profit organization, exercise doesn’t have much of an impact on weight loss. Ultimately, it’s all about the calories. But what’s more interesting is that “those for whom exercise is a daily routine often gain weight as their bodies prompt them to consume calories to make up for fuel lost during exercise.” (Source from Metro Newspaper)
I do somewhat agree with this article (well, there’s even clear evidence supporting this notion), but to be honest, I’m still a little suspicious about it. Of course, I know that you have to control your portions and watch your calories, but doesn’t saying that exercise will not lead to weight loss seem a bit ridiculous? While exercising won’t allow you to eat whatever you want, I still think exercise can enable you to lose weight.
Okay, so like this article states, if exercising doesn’t really matter when it comes to shedding some of those extra pounds, and if people only focus on their caloric consumption without exercising, shouldn't people try to further limit their caloric intake? This may definitely help you lose weight, but I don’t know how that’s going to last and it’s going to drive you nuts! Moreover, does this apply to elite athletes such as Michael Phelps whose physically demanding training regimen requires him to consume more than 12,000 calories a day? He’s still in great shape despite his gluttonous eating habits; if he didn't exercise, his weight would surely balloon.
What’s your opinion on this article? Do you think exercise plays a limited role in weight loss?
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