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The Impact of Timing of Exercise Initiation on Weight Loss: An 18‐Month Randomized Clinical Trial
Author(s) -
Catenacci Victoria A.,
Ostendorf Danielle M.,
Pan Zhaoxing,
Bing Kristen,
Wayland Liza T.,
Seyoum Emmanuel,
Stauffer Brian L.,
Phelan Suzanne,
Creasy Seth A.,
Caldwell Ann E.,
Wyatt Holly R.,
Bessesen Daniel H.,
Melanson Edward L.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
obesity
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.438
H-Index - 199
eISSN - 1930-739X
pISSN - 1930-7381
DOI - 10.1002/oby.22624
Subject(s) - medicine , weight loss , overweight , randomized controlled trial , physical therapy , aerobic exercise , obesity
Objective This study aimed to evaluate the impact of timing of exercise initiation on weight loss within a behavioral weight loss program. Methods Adults with overweight or obesity ( N = 170; age 18‐55 years; BMI 25‐42 kg/m 2 ; 83.5% women) were enrolled in an 18‐month behavioral weight loss program consisting of a reduced‐calorie diet, exercise, and group‐based support. The standard group (STD) received a supervised exercise program (progressing to 300 min/wk of moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise) during months 0 to 6. The sequential group (SEQ) was asked to refrain from changing exercise during months 0 to 6 and received the supervised exercise program during months 7 to 12. On completion of supervised exercise, both groups were instructed to continue 300 min/wk of moderate‐intensity exercise for the study duration. Results At 6 months, the STD group exhibited greater reductions in body weight (−8.7 ± 0.7 kg) compared with the SEQ group (−6.9 ± 0.6 kg; P = 0.047). Between 6 and 18 months, the STD group regained more weight (2.5 ± 0.8 kg vs. 0.0 ± 0.8 kg; P = 0.02). At 18 months, there were no between‐group differences in changes in weight (STD: −6.9 ± 1.2 kg; SEQ: −7.9 ± 1.2 kg), fat mass, lean mass, physical activity, or attrition. Conclusions Both immediate and delayed exercise initiation within a behavioral weight loss program resulted in clinically meaningful weight loss at 18 months. Thus, timing of exercise initiation can be personalized based on patient preference.