How does all this relate to losing weight? The key point to remember is that the MET level associated with an activity does not directly equate to the number of calories expended. The weight of the individual performing the activity will determine how many calories are expended at a given MET level of activity. So, a person who is 220 lbs. performing the same activity for the same amount of time as someone weighing 110 lbs. will burn twice as many calories as the lighter weight individual. Since it is true that no matter what a person’s weight, to lose 1 pound they need to have a weekly caloric deficit of 3,500 calories, the heavier person will lose the 1 pound faster! This also means that as they continue to lose weight, they will not lose weight as quickly with the same amount of exercise! To continue the rate of weight loss they must increase the amount of energy expended by increasing the number of METs or the duration of the activity. These are important points to bear in mind as you progress towards your weight loss goals.

So from this we can see that a progressive exercise program can help us lose weight throughout the weight loss and maintenance phases. But it can do more than that. Perhaps its greatest value is to prevent chronic medical conditions and help treat many conditions. All great reasons to exercise!

In my next post I’ll review some of the important things to remember about starting your exercise program.

For Your Health – Dr. Bob