Exercise and Diet Needed for Effective Weight Loss

If you can't seem to lose weight even though you exercise like crazy, you might be missing the other half of the weight loss equation.

One study found that increasing exercise without dietary modification (especially for women) was not enough to effectively lose weight. The researchers found that women who increased their exercise, but did not monitor food intake showed no change in weight after 16 months as compared to women in other studies who increased exercise and monitored food intake. Such studies showed an average 13- pound weight loss after just 12 weeks.

So, although exercise is important to health, fitness and well-being, keep in mind that it is one component of an effective weight loss plan.

Also check out these Tips for athlete's who want to avoid weight gain.

Reference: Donnelly, J, Smith, Bryan. Is Exercise Effective for Weight Loss With Ad Libitum Diet? Energy Balance, Compensation, and Gender Differences. Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews. Vol 33, No 4, October 2005.