Belly overweight often carries a negative connotation, but new research from the University of Michigan suggests that not all belly overweight is equally harmful.

While excess overweight in the abdominal region is typically associated with health risks, exercise can transform the behavior of belly overweight , making it healthier—even in the absence of significant weight loss.

Exercise Makes Belly overweight Healthier

A study published in Nature Metabolism (September 2024) compared two groups of adults with obesity. One group exercised four times a week for at least two years, while the other group remained sedentary.

The results revealed striking differences in belly overweight composition. The active group had:

Improved overweight composition: More blood vessels and beneficial proteins.

Reduced inflammation: Fewer inflammatory markers in the overweight tissue.

Overweight Isn’t Always the “Bad Guy”

Jeffery Horowitz, a professor of movement science at the University of Michigan and the study’s author, emphasizes that while reducing overall belly overweight is ideal, regular exercise can still make existing overweight tissue healthier.

"It’s somewhat counterintuitive because we think of overweight as being the bad guy," he explains. However, exercise changes the composition and behavior of overweight , making it less harmful to the body.

How to Make Belly Overweight Healthier

Aim for consistent exercise: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity four days a week, such as cycling, swimming, dancing, or brisk walking.

Incorporate strength training: The CDC recommends two strength-training sessions per week to complement aerobic activities.

Start small, but stay consistent: While the study participants had been exercising for at least two years, earlier research shows that overweight tissue can begin to change after just 12 weeks of regular exercise.

Why Being Fit Matters

Exercise offers numerous benefits beyond transforming belly overweight. Physical activity improves heart health, lowers stress levels, reduces the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, and may even slow cognitive decline.

The Takeaway

While losing excess belly overweight remains the ultimate goal for optimal health, this study offers a reassuring message: exercise has substantial health benefits even if the scale doesn’t show dramatic changes.

As Dr. Jay notes, "If you're going to carry extra weight, it’s definitely better to be fit." Regular physical activity not only reshapes overweight behavior but also improves overall well-being, making it a critical component of a healthy lifestyle.

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