He said: “Many of the health benefits achieved from weight loss may be reversed if the weight is gained back. Physical activity can not only help maintain weight loss, it also may protect cardiovascular health even if some weight regain occurs, helping preserve earlier improvements in blood pressure and insulin sensitivity.
”As with any major medical issue, treatment of obesity should be individually tailored to a person’s specific needs and usually requires a comprehensive, multipronged approach that’s best achieved with guidance from a health professional. Not only does this support individual accountability, but just as you wouldn’t likely treat high blood pressure or diabetes on your own, optimal results in treating obesity will come from a collaboration with your clinician and health care team.”
The statement also emphasises the role of doctors and healthcare professionals to help people address obesity by setting realistic goals, staying motivated and using evidence-based approaches including medications or surgery, counselling and digital tools.
Dr Stacey Rosen, volunteer president of the AHA, said: “Despite the known benefits of physical activity, many people face challenges being active, including time constraints and limited access to safe or convenient ways to move during daily routines. Addressing these barriers can help support healthier habits over time.”
Prof Swift added: “For many people, lasting weight loss can feel out of reach. When movement is added as part of obesity care, it not only supports weight loss goals, but improves key health risk factors.
“Physical activity should be prescribed and prioritised for its cardiovascular and metabolic benefits in obesity treatment. Exercise can help you be healthier even if you don’t lose weight.”
