Evaluation of weight resistance training as a component of exercise in the behavioral treatment of obesity

Behavior therapy is considered the "treatment of choice" for mild to moderate obesity. Exercise, in conjunction with a reduced calorie diet is an important component of a weight reduction program. While calorie restricted diets are efficacious for weight loss, dieting without exercise results in loss of both fat and fat-free mass (FFM). Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is also lowered during dieting, as a result of the body adapting to periods of famine, RMR correlates highly with FFM, and the decline in RMR may be due in part to the loss of FFM. A reduction in RMR may produce consequent weight management difficulties. Therefore, incorporating exercise into a weight-reduction program may help reduce the loss of FFM and subsequent decline in RMR. Results of previous studies mining-the effects, of weight resistance training on weight loss, body composition changes, and RMR are equivocal. It is unclear whether to emphasize weight resistance. training or aerobic training as best method for preserving FFM, and reducing the decline in RMR. The present study assessed the efficacy of a combined program of weight resistance anti aerobic training versus aerobic training alone. Ninety-seven mildly to moderately obese participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions lasting 24 weeks: (a) aerobic exercise (BT) alone, or (b) weight resistance training in combination with aerobic exercise (BT+WRT). Results indicated that: (1) over time, participants in both treatment conditions realized significant decreases in weight, and body mass index (BMI); (2) participants in both treatment conditions realized significant improvements in body composition measures, with participants in the BT+WRT-condition showing greater improvements than participants in the BT condition; (3) there were no statistically significant declines or increases in RMR across time or condition; and (4) participants in both treatment conditions, experienced significant decreases in depressive symptomatology, and significant increases in subjective satisfaction with body and self. Thus for a person interested in weight loss without consequent attenuation in RMR, the best approach may be an exercise program that includes both aerobic and anaerobic training.