Exercise has long been associated with weight loss, but what exactly is going on inside our bodies when we sweat it out at the gym? The science behind exercise and weight loss is complex, but understanding it can help us make informed decisions about how to approach our fitness routines.

First and foremost, weight loss occurs when we burn more calories than we consume. Exercise is a key component of this equation because it burns calories. For example, an hour-long workout on the elliptical can burn around 600 calories for a 150-pound person. However, burning calories through exercise isn’t the only way exercise helps with weight loss.

When we exercise, our muscles contract, which creates a demand for energy. Our bodies first turn to glycogen, a stored form of carbohydrates in our muscles and liver, for this energy. After we deplete our glycogen stores, our bodies turn to fat for energy. This process is known as fat oxidation.

Fat oxidation is a somewhat slow process, and it requires oxygen. This is why aerobic exercise, like running or biking, is often associated with weight loss. During aerobic exercise, our bodies consume oxygen at a higher rate, allowing us to burn more fat. Additionally, research has shown that aerobic exercise can increase the number of mitochondria in our cells, which are responsible for producing energy. The more mitochondria we have, the more fat we can burn.

Strength training, like lifting weights, is often associated with building muscle, but it can also help with weight loss. Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue, so having more muscle can help us burn more calories even when we’re at rest. Additionally, strength training can increase our metabolism, or the rate at which our bodies burn calories.

It’s worth noting that exercise alone is not a magic bullet for weight loss. Consistency and dietary changes are also crucial factors. However, exercise can be an important tool in our weight loss journeys. Whether it’s through aerobic exercise or strength training, exercising regularly can help us burn calories, burn fat, and build muscle, all of which can contribute to a healthier body composition.

In summary, the science behind exercise and weight loss involves burning calories, fat oxidation, increased metabolism, and building muscle. By incorporating exercise into our routines and making healthy food choices, we can achieve a healthier weight and improve our overall well-being.