Lose weight by jogging alone? Unfortunately it doesn’t work, says evolutionary biologist Herman Pontzer. Here he presents his surprising research results – and explains why exercise is still so important for us humans.
This interview comes from the stern archive and first appeared on June 13, 2023.
Mr. Pontzer, many people are doing sports these days to lose a few kilos. Is this the best way?
No, unfortunately that doesn’t help at all when it comes to losing weight.
I’m sorry, what? I just ran a few kilometers here on the university campus. My fitness watch praised me for burning 300 extra calories. I would have to be a little slimmer.
No, I have to disappoint you, it doesn’t work that way. If you are physically active and exercise, that doesn’t mean you burn 300 calories more a day than someone who hasn’t exercised. Even if your fitness tracker says so.
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