Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity and Weight Outcomes: Does Every Minute Count?

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Abstract
Purpose.: The purpose of this study was to test if moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in less than the recommended ≥ 10-minute bouts related to weight outcomes. Design.: Secondary data analysis. Setting.: Random sample from the U.S. civilian noninstitutionalized population included in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Participants.: A total of 4511 adults aged 18 to 64 years from the 2003–2006 NHANES. Method.: Clinically measured body mass index (BMI) and overweight/obese status were regressed on accelerometer measures of minutes per day in higher-intensity long bouts (≥ 10 minutes, ≥ 2020 accelerometer counts per minute [cpm]), higher-intensity short bouts (< 10 minutes, ≥ 2020 cpm), lower-intensity long bouts (≥ 10 minutes, 760–2019 cpm), and lower-intensity short bouts (< 10 minutes, 760–2019 cpm). Socioeconomic and demographic characteristics were controlled. Results.: Both higher-intensity short bouts and long bouts of PA related to lower BMI and risk of overweight/obesity. Neither lower-intensity short bouts nor long bouts related to BMI or risk of overweight/obesity Conclusion.: The current ≥ 10-minute MVPA bouts guideline was based on health benefits other than weight outcomes. Our findings showed that for weight gain prevention, accumulated higher-intensity PA bouts of < 10 minutes are highly beneficial, supporting the public health promotion message that “every minute counts.”