Exercise Science

erThe University of Hong Kong

Institute of Human Performance

Foundations of Exercise Science Case Report #1

Obesity and Physical Activity

Francis Paul Li (2012524321)

Abstract:

In this study, I am going to find out the relationship between obesity and physical activity. I am going to propose a physical activity intervention for Neal, who is suffering from obesity. The purpose of this intervention is to reduce Neal’s body fat percentage by at least 2% per month. It is going to be a 12 week intervention which will involve both aerobic and anaerobic trainings. He will take part in different forms of physical activities such as running and resistance training. It is predicted that the physical activity would lead to an increase in workload, heart rate and ultimately energy expenditure. When energy expenditure exceeds energy intake, it is expected that Neal’s body fat percentage would decrease. Physical activity is very likely to have a positive effect on preventing obesity.

Introduction:

Obesity has become one of the most serious health problems in the world.

Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health. The WHO definition is a BMI greater than or equal to 25 is overweight and a BMI greater than or equal to 30 is obesity1.

Recent data from the 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition examination survey (NHANES) show that almost 65% of the adult population in the USA is overweight2.

According to the WHO, worldwide obesity has more than doubled since 1980. Over 200 million men and nearly 300 million women were obese.

At least 2.8 million adults die each year as a result of being overweight or obese. This is because obesity can lead to an increase in the chance of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and musculoskeletal disorders1.

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest reasons why worldwide obesity has more than doubled since 1980 is people are not doing enough physical activities. Only a minority...