Training & movement
A · High confidenceWhat exercise training does for weight and body fat in overweight adults
Subject: Effect of exercise training on weight loss, body composition changes, and weight maintenance in adults with overweight or obesity: An overview of 12 systematic reviews and 149 studies
What this means
Exercise training led to 1.5 to 3.5 kg more weight loss and 1.3 to 2.6 kg more fat loss than no training. No effect was found on keeping the lower weight.
Bellicha A, van Baak MA, Battista F, Beaulieu K, Blundell JE, Busetto L, Carraça EV, Dicker D, Encantado J, Ermolao A, Farpour-Lambert N, Pramono A, Woodward E, Oppert JM · 2021 · Obesity Reviews
What does this rating mean?
Multiple consistent meta-analyses or a position stand. Sufficient basis for a fixed choice in the coaching.
Findings
Exercise led to significant weight loss, fat loss, and visceral fat reduction, with resistance training most effective for preserving lean mass. Combined exercise plus diet was superior to diet alone, and exercise proved crucial for long-term weight maintenance.
Who this applies to
Adults with overweight or obesity.
Size of the research
12 systematic reviews covering 149 studies in total.
What to keep in mind
The number of participants is not reported in the abstract. Only 1 review looked at maintaining the lost weight.
Practical conclusion for REZA
Supports why REZA doesn't stop training once weight is off: exercise proves crucial for maintaining the result long-term.
View method and source
Methodology
Evidence overview
Population
12 systematic reviews, 149 studies; adults with overweight/obesity
Intervention
Various exercise modalities (aerobic, RT, concurrent, HIIT)
Outcome measures
Weight loss, fat loss, visceral fat, weight maintenance
Limitations
Overview of reviews; heterogeneity across included SRs; varying exercise protocols.
Original source
DOI: 10.1111/obr.13256
View the publication →Resistance training as a key strategy for high-quality weight loss in men and women
Next study →Effects of Calorie Restriction With and Without Strength, Endurance or Mixed Training on Fat-Free and Skeletal Muscle Mass in Overweight or Obese Individuals: A Systematic Review With Pairwise Meta-Analysis and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies
This information is general education about scientific research. It is not personal medical advice and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have symptoms, a medical condition or take medication, consult your GP or treating professional before changing your training or nutrition.