Staying fit more important than running to lose weight: study

A woman runs through a forest. Illustration photo by Pixabay

Since 1980, obesity rates have doubled in over 70 countries, leading to an increase in chronic diseases and a higher risk of death from cardiovascular conditions. As a result, many doctors recommend running as an effective and healthy method for weight loss.

However, a recent study by the University of Virginia suggests that weight loss may not be the primary goal of running. The study analyzed data from 20 previous studies involving nearly 400,000 participants. Participants were categorized based on their body mass index (BMI) and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). The goal was to determine whether being fit or maintaining a healthy weight was more crucial.

The results showed that overweight or obese individuals who were in good physical condition had no higher risk of death compared to those with a normal weight. In contrast, those with poor fitness levels, regardless of weight, had a significantly higher risk of death, Run Outside reported.

People with poor CRF had a higher risk of death from all causes and a 2-3 times greater risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to those with good fitness. Notably, those whose fitness levels exceeded the standard by 20% saw a significant reduction in their risk of death. This indicates that maintaining a moderate exercise routine is enough to bring long-term health benefits.

While the study emphasizes the importance of fitness, experts caution that it does not diminish the significance of weight control. Being overweight still increases the risk of chronic diseases and can make exercise more difficult. However, rather than focusing solely on weight loss through running, individuals should prioritize improving their fitness. Even without significant weight loss, enhancing cardiovascular endurance can lead to substantial physical and mental health improvements.

Experts suggest that instead of obsessing over weight, individuals should focus on the VO2max index, which measures the maximum amount of oxygen the body can use during high-intensity exercise. Additionally, methods for measuring body fat percentage using electronic scales are often inaccurate, so focusing on physical training is a more meaningful approach than simply trying to control weight.