The importance of physical activity in the prevention and treatment of obesity

Abstract:

Physical activity is an indispensable part of the overweight and obesity prevention, the treatment of obesity as well as the maintenance of body weight reduction loss. The advantages of losing body mass by exercise are numerous, including physical fitness improvement, preserving and increasing lean body mass, higher quality of life and the reduction of the cardiovascular risk factors and overall mortality. Recommendations are to introduce 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity during the week or, if health and functional status allow at least 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity or a combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity throughout the week. Recommendations for physical activity for a specific health condition should include the type of activity, frequency, duration, as well as its intensity and expected progress. Physical activity, with a reduction in the time spent sitting, should be involved in daily schedules in all age groups with a reduction in the time spent sitting.

Key words:
aerobic exercise; exercise; obesity; overweight; physical activity