Why Exercise Is More Important Than Weight Loss, According to Research

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine is challenging long-held assumptions about obesity and physical activity. Based on data from approximately 400,000 participants, the study reveals that a lack of physical activity is more dangerous to health than being overweight — and that it's possible to maintain optimal health and even extend lifespan without necessarily losing weight. “This completely changes everything we thought we knew,” said lead researcher Dr. Siddhartha Angadi of the University of Virginia in an interview with Hindustan Times.

The findings indicate that physical fitness and activity levels impact health as much as, if not more than, body weight. The study followed about 400,000 people and uncovered surprising results: individuals classified as overweight but who were physically fit lived, on average, 8–10 years longer than individuals of normal weight who were sedentary. Moreover, maintaining fitness reduced the risk of heart disease by 65%, regardless of body weight. Even a slight improvement in physical fitness lowered the risk of early death by 30%. The researchers found that daily 30-minute brisk walks, swimming twice a week, 10-minute light jogs, or even cycling to work significantly improved lifespan and fitness levels.

The study also raises important societal questions about how people with excess weight are perceived and treated. “Many patients living with obesity face not only the challenges of the condition itself but also discrimination,” said Dr. Raz Hagoel, director of the Medical Center for Obesity Treatment. “Medicine must view obesity as a complex disease and offer every patient respectful and professional care, regardless of weight.”

Additionally, the researchers found that physical fitness improves memory and cognitive function by about 40%, reduces the risk of depression and anxiety by 50%, improves sleep quality by 60%, and boosts daily energy levels by 45%. Maintaining physical fitness also results in a 40% reduction in medication costs, a 35% decrease in hospitalization days, and billions of dollars in savings for healthcare systems.

While the research strongly emphasizes the value of physical activity, Dr. Hagoel notes that reality is more complicated for those dealing with obesity. “Exercise is beneficial, but people with obesity often find it difficult to be active due to coexisting medical issues such as heart disease or knee pain.” He stresses that solutions must be holistic — a combination of targeted treatment for obesity alongside gradual, personalized physical activity. “Obesity is a disease that shortens life expectancy by an average of 3.2 years and is associated with numerous health risks. Early treatment can prevent related illnesses and help avoid serious health complications in the future.”