The BASES Expert Statement on the Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Body Mass Regulation : Individual Variability and Compensatory Responses

Introduction: Despite being a heavily promoted public health approach to combat obesity, the role of exercise in weight management has been questioned by the popular press and scientific community. Furthermore, it is commonly perceived that exercise is less effective for weight management in women. This (incorrect) portrayal of exercise undermines the important role that exercise should play in weight management. Therefore, this statement briefly summarises the scientific literature examining the effect of aerobic exercise on body mass (BM), and examines how individual variability and compensation to exercise influence exercise-induced BM losses.