Abstract
This Position Statement examines the evidence for physical activity in weight and
adiposity loss, prevention of weight and adiposity gain, and in weight regain in adults,
and provides guidance on implications for exercise practitioners. Research evidence
indicates that >150 min but preferably 300 min per week of aerobic activity of at
least moderate intensity is required to prevent weight and adiposity gain, and at
least the upper end of this range of activity to prevent weight regain after weight
loss. For meaningful weight and total adiposity loss, a minimum of 300–420 min per
week of aerobic activity of at least moderate intensity is required. The evidence
around the volume of aerobic physical activity required to reduce central adiposity
is emerging, and research suggests that it may be substantially less than that required
for weight loss. The impact of high-intensity physical activity and resistance exercise
for weight management is uncertain. During consultations for weight management, exercise
practitioners should advise that metabolic and cardiovascular health benefits can
be achieved with physical activity at any weight, and irrespective of weight change.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 02, 2021
Accepted:
July 18,
2021
Received in revised form:
July 5,
2021
Received:
December 12,
2020
Identification
Copyright
© 2021 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Sports Medicine Australia.
