How important is physical activity in preventing obesity?

Physical activity helps prevent obesity by burning calories, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing metabolic rate. Regular exercise also helps build and maintain muscle mass, which can increase the number of calories your body burns.

The NHS recommends that adults should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week, plus muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

While physical activity is crucial, it should be combined with a healthy diet to effectively prevent obesity. Calorie intake should be balanced with the calories burned through activity to maintain a healthy weight.

Activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, and running are effective, alongside strength-training exercises like weightlifting, yoga, or resistance band exercises.

Yes, it is vital. Children and young people should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day, including activities that strengthen bones and muscles.

Yes, engaging in regular physical activity can lead to more even weight distribution and reduce visceral fat, which is linked to various health issues.

Physical activity can improve mental well-being by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, which are often linked to emotional eating and weight gain.

Simple changes like taking the stairs, walking or cycling for short journeys, engaging in active hobbies, and setting exercise goals can help increase daily activity.

Yes, sedentary behaviour, such as prolonged sitting, is associated with an increased risk of obesity and related health conditions. Reducing sedentary time and increasing physical activity can help mitigate this risk.

Regular physical activity helps maintain weight loss by balancing energy expenditure, preserving lean body mass, and regulating appetite hormones.

Yes, many local councils offer community resources such as free or low-cost exercise classes, walking groups, and public parks with fitness equipment to encourage physical activity.

Physical activity can reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers, which are often associated with obesity.

Yes, workplace wellness programmes that promote regular activity can help employees manage their weight, reduce sedentary time, and improve overall health.

Common barriers include lack of time, motivation, and access to facilities. Overcoming these can involve setting realistic goals, finding enjoyable activities, and incorporating exercise into social activities.

Technology such as fitness trackers, mobile apps, and online workout programmes can motivate and support individuals in tracking their activity, setting goals, and accessing workout routines.