Evolutionary biologist
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Slim thanks to sport? Are you kidding me? Are you serious when you say that! Expert clears up with the greatest weight loss myth
Lose weight with jogging alone? Unfortunately it doesn’t work, says the evolutionary biologist Herman Pontzer. Here he introduces his surprising research results – and explains why movement is still so important for us humans.
This interview comes from the Stern Archive and first appeared in June 2023.
Mr. Pontzer, many sports do a few kilos in these weeks. Is that the best way?
No, unfortunately that almost doesn’t help with losing weight.
I’m sorry, what? I just walked a few kilometers here on the university campus. My fitness watch praised me because I burned 300 additional calories. I would have to get a little slimmer.
No, I have to disappoint her, that’s not how it works. If you are physically active and do sports, it does not mean that you burn 300 calories more than someone who has not exercised on the day. Even if your fitness tracker claims that.
Published in Stern 24/2023
Source: Stern
I’m Caroline, a journalist and author for 24 Hours Worlds. I specialize in health-related news and stories, bringing real-world impact to readers across the globe. With my experience in journalism and writing in both print and online formats, I strive to provide reliable information that resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
