Curves Program Cuts Pounds

Studies found weight-loss/exercise regimen increases metabolic rate

WEDNESDAY, April 21, 2004 (HealthDayNews) -- Sedentary and overweight women who followed the Curves 30-minute circuit-training program significantly raised their metabolic rate, claim eight studies by health and fitness experts at Baylor University.

"We set out to scientifically test and evaluate the theories of the Curves program. We found it to be highly effective in promoting weight loss with no adverse side effects, especially among participants who followed the high-protein/low-carb/low-fat diet," Richard B. Kreider, chairman of the department of health, human performance and recreation, said in a statement.

He said the success of the program seems to be in the increase in metabolic rate achieved by participants.

"Following 10 weeks of dieting and exercising to lose weight and raise their metabolic rate, study participants were able to eat as much as 2,600 calories a day and maintain their weight loss during the maintenance period. These women also lost fat, increased the proportion of muscle to body weight, gained strength, and made medically significant improvements in blood pressure, resting heart rate and aerobic fitness," Kreider said.

He presented the results this week to nutrition experts attending the Experimental Biology 2004 meeting in Washington, D.C.

More information

The National Women's Health Information Center has more about obesity.

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
www.healthday.com