Physical activity

Benefits of physical activity Physical activity and obesity

Physical activity network PCAL

Links Physical activity research Working with GPs

Physical activity and obesity

While the origins of overweight and obesity are complex, a lack of physical activity is a significant contributing factor. Normal regulation of body weight occurs when energy intake equals energy expenditure. A simplified model of weight regulation shows that weight gain may result when there is inadequate physical activity (energy expenditure) to balance our food consumption (energy intake).

Given the importance of physical activity in the maintenance of healthy weight, NSW Health is committed to a range of initiatives to encourage the NSW community to participate in a more active lifestyle. Descriptions of some of these initiatives can be found within this section.

For more information, visit the NSW Health Childhood Obesity website.