33. Exercise might be better than losing weight for lowering your risk of death
Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
Getting in shape might be better for lowering your risk of death than losing weight. In a new study published in the journal iScience, researchers at Arizona State University reviewed all the research on early mortality risk associated with weight loss and physical activity over the past 10 years. They found that the cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors linked to a shorter life can be improved with exercise, even when there’s no weight loss as a result. Based on their findings, they argue that reducing weight and lowering our obesity should not be our primary goal. They believe we should focus on exercise and becoming more physically fit instead of worrying about our weight.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
