Morbid obesity describes people who are at least 100 pounds overweight or who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more or 35 or more with an obesity-related illness. According to the fact sheet "Obesity in America" by the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), there are currently 15 million morbidly obese adults in America.
The Role of Exercise in Weight Loss
Even for someone who is morbidly obese, physical activity and exercise can play an important role in weight loss. However, because of the physical limitations that someone with morbid obesity may have, finding the right exercise program may be a challenge. Therefore, it is critical that people in this weight category consult with a physician to determine an exercise plan that is appropriate and safe for them.
Start Slow When Beginning an Exercise Plan
When starting an exercise or physical activity program, it is important to start slow and build up the activity level over time. For example, a person may begin with just two to five minutes of continuous activity each day, and then eventually build up to 20 minutes by increasing the daily activity a few minutes every couple of days.
Types of Exercises
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it’s possible to achieve daily activity goals by participating in a combination of structured activities, such as walking, swimming and water aerobics, and normal daily activities, such as light yard work and housework. The NIH also suggests people park their cars farther away from store entrances and walk up stairs instead of taking elevators, as long as it is safe to do so, as a way to incorporate more activity into daily routines.
Strength Training for the Morbidly Obese
Strength training helps to build stronger muscles and burn extra calories. Isometrics is a type of strength training that may be a good option for people who are morbidly obese because the exercises can be done while seated. With isometrics, a person contracts his muscles against resistance without movement for a set period of time, usually about 10 seconds. While available, special equipment is not needed to perform isometric exercises.
Benefits of Exercise
Not only may regular physical activity help with weight loss, it may also help to reduce the risk of potentially life-threatening health conditions associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease. Exercise can also help to increase energy levels and improve mood and well-being. While starting and maintaining an exercise program can be challenging, the results usually are worth it.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Susan Drew - Based in Putnam County, N.Y., Susan Drew has been writing as a health care public relations and communications specialist since 1994. Her ...
