What Articles in Non-Peer-Reviewed Journals are doing to Health?

First of all, there are so many exercise myths out there that aren't true. One day when I get the time I will address many of them. Many of these myths are displayed as facts in women and men's so-called health magazines. For example doing a million and one sit-ups to create a flat "toned" belly doesn't work. You can't get a flat belly if you are eating rubbish and excessive calories no matter how many sit ups you are doing.

What sparked this post was an email I received from the American College of Sports Medicine today. Please read the following:


Dear ACSM members and certified professionals,

Last Friday, an article appeared in Time magazine making statements that we believe run counter to fact and the public interest. The article claimed that exercise, contrary to the research with which we’re all familiar, is not an effective health tool, particularly as it pertains to weight loss. (To read article click here.)

While an ACSM member and expert was consulted for the story, he agrees that his research and opinions were selectively reported. Among its numerous claims, the story would have us believe that:

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Losing weight matters more than being aerobically fit in preventing heart disease
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One can’t lose weight from exercise because exercise makes you hungrier – and willpower can’t conquer the hunger enough to make good food choices
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Exercising 60 to 90 minutes most days of the week in order to lose weight (a recommendation from an ACSM Position Stand) is unrealistic
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Leisure-time physical activity – just moving around more during the day – is more effective for weight loss than dedicated exercise
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Vigorous exercise depletes energy resources so much that it leads to overeating – i.e., weight gain

Your assistance is needed in getting the right health message out to the public. These suggested talking points will help you dispel myths and confirm the value of exercise to your patients, clients and colleagues.



Also, we encourage you to adapt this letter to the editor and submit it to your local news outlets, helping readers and viewers get the best evidence-based facts and information.



Thank you for your involvement as we continue to increase awareness of the true benefits and advantages of a regular physical activity program.



Sincerely,

The American College of Sports Medicine


This is disgraceful. If you have read previous posts, there are peer-reviewed published articles that state numerous times the "truth" about exercise. Yes it is ongoing research, but this magazine in-particular does not have credible resources. We are in the middle of the largest obesity problem in history. Check this site out:
Obesity Trends in the US
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What is one thing that has changed . . we are more sedentary people. Another thing that has changed is we are over-consumers of food and the quality of food has decreased. Get out there and get moving. Stop believing exercise "health" magazines, talk to your doctor, grab a credible personal trainer, anything to find out the truth. . .Just get moving, watch what you eat, when you eat and you will lose weight. It's not rocket science . . .calories consumed vs calories expended. Please forward this information to all family and friends. Let's squash the myths before this becomes an issue!