We are constantly hearing about the rising numbers of overweight and obese people in the U.S. and these figures are usually accompanied by pleas from health experts to start exercising. Well, according to one recent study, they already are.
In a survey of 175 overweight or obese people, as defined by having a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher, ages 40 and older, researchers discovered that 39 percent of the group exercised regularly, 29 percent had been exercising for six months and 25 percent were considering exercising. Only 12 percent admitted having no aspirations to exercise. The study also found that those in the lower BMI range were more active than those with a higher BMI-reinforcing the theory that a more sedentary lifestyle contributes to being overweight and obese.
Researchers concluded that being overweight or obese doesn’t necessarily mean a person isn’t active. Also noteworthy is the fact that more than half of the participants owned a dog, which is believed to encourage a more active lifestyle-you may not feel like going out for a walk but your dog can be a good motivator.
