What role does physical activity play in overall health?

Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy body weight by helping to balance the calories consumed through diet with the calories expended during physical activities. Engaging in regular physical activity burns calories, which can prevent weight gain and support weight loss when combined with a balanced diet. Moreover, physical activity contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass, boosting metabolism and aiding weight management over the long term.

By strengthening diverse bodily systems, such as the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, physical activity can enhance overall energy levels and functional capacity, making it easier to stay active throughout daily life. This positive relationship between physical activity and body weight is supported by extensive research, which highlights how regular movement can help prevent obesity and related health complications. In this context, while physical activity indeed contributes to aspects like muscle development and disease management, its primary and well-documented role in aiding weight maintenance is significant for overall health.