This article aims to review the published
research that addresses the role of physical
activity as a strategy in body-weight management,
both when used as a single intervention
and when used in combination with dietary
restriction. We chose to focus on prospective,
randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) of at least
4 months in duration; however, other prospective
trials, meta-analyses and large systematic
reviews are also included and discussed
as appropriate. We first examine the role of
physical activity as an intervention alone or
in combination with dietary modification in
producing weight loss. Next we discuss the role
of physical activity in weight-loss maintenance.
Finally, we identify the limitations of the current
body of literature, and provide suggestions for
future research.