Can physical activity improve the health of the overweight without weight loss?

The prevalence of obesity continues to rise, with over one quarter of the UK adult population in 2010 being classified as obese. Obesity has a severe impact on health and is associated with an array of serious health conditions. Physical inactivity is another major contributor to the global burden of disease and is also associated with a range of negative health outcomes. Research suggests that maintaining or improving fitness through physical activity is associated with a lower risk of developing obesity-related conditions regardless of weight change. Therefore, healthcare professionals should place an emphasis on advising their patients to increase their physical activity levels to meet UK guidelines, as well as on eating a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy bodyweight.