How Much Exercise Do You Really Need to Lose Weight?

In 2006, the federal government released updated dietary and exercise guidelines. Most of its recommendations are a reaction to the growing obesity pandemic. Prior to this latest update, the minimum recommended amount of exercise was 30 minutes of 'moderate' intensity physical activity.

The 2006 guidelines suggest an hour (60 minutes) or more of daily exercise in order to avoid gaining any additional weight. This increase from 30 minutes to 60 minutes is in line with the weight loss guidelines at the Nile Wellness Center in Atlanta, according to program's director, Michael Imani, Ph.D. In 2006, only 46% of adult Americans got at least 30 minutes of moderate level activity most days. For the first time, the federal guidelines specify 60 to 90 minutes as the level of daily activity one needs to sustain weight loss.

In the Nile Wellness program, clients are encouraged to get 60 minutes of moderate aerobic six days per week. Additionally, clients are encouraged to also get 8 minutes of intensive anaerobic or strength training exercise in the mornings (six days a week). "Finally, the government's guidelines are consistent with the experiences of 'weight loss superstars' in the National Weight Control Registry, NWCR," says, Dr. Imani.

NWCR members have lost an average of 73 pounds and have to have maintained at least a 30 pound loss for at least a year. Regristry members report daily workouts of 60 to 90 minutes. The main thing is to find exercise routines and other creative ways to remain active within these guidelines.

The Nile Wellness Center in Atlanta specializes in colon hydrotherapy or colonics, weight loss programs, and detoxification programs. Visit at www.nilewellnesscenter.com