Exercise strategies for the obese patient.

Exercise is an important component of weight-control programs, yet the impact of exercise for weight control is based on the ability of patients to engage in adequate levels of activity. The minimal level that should be recommended is at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week. Although this level of physical activity may improve health-related factors, there is some evidence to support the recommendation of higher levels of exercise for weight-control purposes. The role of the clinician is to provide adequate guidance to patients regarding issues related to the intensity, duration, and mode of exercise that may be most appropriate. When addressing these issues, it is also important to consider the barriers that individual patients may encounter that will have an effect on adoption and maintenance of exercise behaviors.