Debunking “Weight Loss Is 80% Diet And 20% Exercise”

“Weight loss is 80% diet and 20% exercise”.

At some point you’ve probably heard something to that effect.

It’s a shame that such phrases are so popular because in reality nutrition and physical activity are two sides of the same coin.

On the most basic level, weight loss is all about energy in vs energy out.

So yes, you could get into a calorie deficit just by eating less… and you’d lose weight.

But that’s just not the whole story.

See, we were made to move.

Back in prehistoric times, it was a necessity for survival.

Nowadays, it’s not... but here’s the thing: our bodies haven’t changed too much since those days.

So while working out isn’t necessarily needed to achieve an energy deficit, adding it into the mix will make this whole fat loss thing SO much easier for you.

Reason being, when you exercise regularly (1)you can be in a deficit while eating more, and (2)you can maintain your muscle and bone mass.

These two facts lead to ALL KINDS of positive implications.

(1) Being able to eat more when dieting is a powerful psychological benefit - it’ll help you stick to eating in a deficit without being miserable and hungry all the time.

(2) It’ll also lead to increased micronutrient and phytochemical intake, leading to better function and better health.

(3) More muscle means you’ll have the potential to burn more calories.

(4) Working out will also lead to improved nutrient partitioning, leading to a better body composition - i.e. less fat and more muscle at the same body weight.

The point is, exercise makes everything better.

There is literally no good reason NOT to work out.

#JustDoIt