There have been numerous studies that have reported on the importance of physical activity for weight control. These studies have focused on prevention of weight gain, successful weight loss, and the prevention of weight regain. The interest in physical activity as a lifestyle strategy to combat the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity stems from the fact that it is the one method that can be consistently used to increase energy expenditure. As highlighted by Ravussin and Bogardus (3) physical activity is the most variable component of total daily energy expenditure. Therefore, it is important to understand the contribution of an increase in energy expenditure resulting from physical activity on weight loss, long-term weight-loss maintenance, and the prevention of weight gain. Optimal weight control through physical activity may also contribute to reductions in abdominal adiposity and reductions in metabolic risk.