Overweight And Obese People Get More Exercise Than Previously People Think

It is often thought that people who are overweight or obese are lazy and that they eat way more than they need. However, a recent study conducted by the Case Western Reserve University, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing has shown that this is not actually the case. That study, conducted by nurse practioners in their clinic, revealed the surprising exercise habits and attitudes of 175 adults who were all considered to be overweight or obese. Those people, all aged forty or older had body mass indexes (BMI) of 25 or higher with many of them in the morbid obesity range.

The results of the study revealed that nearly thirty percent of these people had been exercising for at least six months and that nearly forty percent of them exercised on a regular basis. A quarter of those who were surveyed had at least had some thoughts of exercising at some point while only a very small percentage of them did not have any expressed desire or intention to exercise in any way. The study also showed that those in the lower ranges of the obese BMI s did seem to exercise with more frequency or regularity than those in the upper ranges potentially because of physical limitations. Those who are at excessively high body weights are encouraged to take great care when starting an exercise program and to try to choose something that is lower impact until they are more accustomed to moving around more. The nurses also remind everyone to get their doctor’s approval before starting any new exercise programs .

The current standings show that 34% of the adult population are obese with even more fitting into the overweight category. Obesity has caused quite an emotional and economic toll on the US, accounting for some 300,000 premature deaths in the country every year. Most of those deaths can be directly attributed to diabetes, hypertension, and coronary heart disease, all directly caused and worsened by excessive body weight.

This study flies in the face of previously released opinions by health care officials as well as those in the diet and weight loss industry that overweight people do not exercise at all. It also shows that those who are severely overweight or obese need to be encouraged not only to try to get as much exercise as they can but to learn the benefits of a healthy, sensible diet that will allow them to remain healthy and strong, while still achieving their weight loss goals.

While the study did show a positive attitude and attempt at exercise by the majority of those interviewed, the nurses did show serious concern for the 12% that had no desire or intention to do so as well. Strategies such as getting a dog or finding a walking partner are encouraged so that everyone is getting at least a minimum of the required exercise every day.

1. Prev:The Easiest Weight Loss Ever: Fudge Your Estimates From The Previous Year
2. Next:How To Achieve Quick Healthy Weight Loss