Exercising outdoors is 'important for obese teenagers'
11/02/2010 Exercising outdoors and eating healthily are the most effective ways for obese teenagers to lose weight, according to the National Obesity Forum.
The organisation was commenting on a recent report by researchers in the US which suggested surgery was the best way for overweight adolescents to shed excess pounds. Published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study claimed that a gastric band was significantly more effective than lifestyle change.
Professor David Haslam, chairman of the National Obesity Forum, said that getting a gastric band is an "extreme measure" and those looking to lose weight should try exercising outdoors and eating better first.
"There are so many different factors...Portions are bigger and unhealthier; there is a lack of physical activity, there are more cars, more television, computers, and technology," he explained.
Studies suggest that the benefits of outdoor play and exercise extend beyond weight loss and can provide children with opportunities for development.
Parentline Plus recently said that children can improve their social and communication skills through playing outdoors.
The organisation was commenting on a recent report by researchers in the US which suggested surgery was the best way for overweight adolescents to shed excess pounds. Published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study claimed that a gastric band was significantly more effective than lifestyle change.
Professor David Haslam, chairman of the National Obesity Forum, said that getting a gastric band is an "extreme measure" and those looking to lose weight should try exercising outdoors and eating better first.
"There are so many different factors...Portions are bigger and unhealthier; there is a lack of physical activity, there are more cars, more television, computers, and technology," he explained.
Studies suggest that the benefits of outdoor play and exercise extend beyond weight loss and can provide children with opportunities for development.
Parentline Plus recently said that children can improve their social and communication skills through playing outdoors.
