A recent mouse study, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, suggests that intense exercise sessions may lead to reduced subsequent physical activity and lower body temperature, which may contribute to weight gain. The researchers also evaluated how circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep and wake cycle, played a role in activity by examining the stress hormone corticosterone, which regulates the circadian rhythm.
In this study, researchers hypothesized that even a single session of high-intensity exercise could disrupt this rhythm, leading to decreased physical activity, lower heat production and diminished weight loss effects. Their physical activity and core body temperature, indicators of heat production, were monitored before and after exercise.
The researchers also noted a disruption in the synchrony between physical activity and body temperature. They confirmed a positive correlation where relatively low blood corticosterone levels during wake times were associated with reduced physical activity.
This study underscores the importance of considering not just the calories burned during exercise but also the subsequent activity levels and circadian rhythm when designing exercise regimens for effective weight loss.
A study found that while exercise is a powerful strategy for weight loss, a single session of high-intensity exercise that induces heavy sweating can significantly reduce subsequent physical activity and core body temperature, leading to weight gain. Some researchers also pointed out that this animal study questions the benefits of vigorous exercise for weight loss, suggesting it might actually cause weight gain by reducing activity levels afterward and disrupting body temperature.
It’s important to recognize that while vigorous exercise has its benefits, it can also lead to reduced activity levels outside of exercise sessions and potentially impact body temperature regulation. This can sometimes counteract weight loss efforts if not managed properly,” Anton explained. The research adds new evidence to the emerging theory that animals, including humans, tend to compensate for the energy expenditure of exercise (especially a single bout of high-intensity exercise) by reducing energy use in other activities. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the beneficial effects of maintaining an active lifestyle beyond just exercise.
This study suggests rethinking the focus on intense exercise, considering the potential benefits of more moderate and consistent activity for weight loss. However, it’s important to note that these results are from animal studies and may not directly apply to humans.
