Diet Vs Exercise
THE GOAL
Weight Loss
THE SCIENCE
It’s a debate that’s as old as time itself. The facts? Weight loss happens when your body requires more energy and kilojoules than you’re putting in, and so is forced to break down the molecules in your fat cells for fuel. “Start by writing down what you’re eating during a regular day, only using a [kilojoule] counting app if that works for you,” suggests sports dietitian Kathryn Stewart. “If that amount is keeping your weight stable, then reducing it by about 10 to 15 per cent will help create a [kilojoule] deficit – that might be one fewer snack per day or just slightly smaller portions.” She notes the best approach for weight loss is one you can stick to, and avoiding quick-fix fads and diets that require you to ditch whole food groups is wise for both body and mind.
Of course, exercise can help you reach this deficit, as well as delivering ample benefits beyond fat burn. Stewart’s tip? Incorporate strength training to build lean muscle, which, in turn, will boost basal metabolic rate, supporting your weightloss endeavours. Also dial up your non-exercise
