Physical Activity and the risk of becoming Obese

According to the 2002 Health Survey for England  about 43% of men and 34% of women are overweight and an additional 22% of men and 23% of women are obese.

• People with higher levels of physical activity generally report lower body weight, body mass index and skin-fold measures.
• Regular physical activity is important for weight control. Among those who are active, the risk of becoming obese is reduced by 50% compared to people with sedentary lifestyles.

SOURCES: 

• See Grundy SM et al. Physical Activity in the prevention and treatment of obesity and its comorbidities: evidence report of independent panel to assess the role of physical activity in the treatment of obesity and its comorbidities. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 1999, 31:1493-1500. See also, At least five a week. Evidence on the impact of physical activity and its relationship to health. A report from the Chief Medical Officer. DH, 2004.
• Department of Health (2002). Health Survey for England 2002 Trend Data.  See Department of Health website: http://www.publications.doh.gov.uk/stats/trends1.htm
• Overweight - Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25-30kg/m2;, Obese -BMI of more than 30kg/m2