Evolutionary biologist explains: Slim thanks to sport? Are you kidding me? Are you serious when you say that! Expert dispels the biggest weight loss myth

This interview comes from the stern archive and first appeared on June 13, 2023.

Mr. Pontzer, many people are doing sports these days to lose a few kilos. Is that the best way? No, unfortunately it hardly helps at all when it comes to losing weight.

I’m sorry, what? I just ran a few kilometers here on the university campus. My fitness watch praised me for burning 300 extra calories. I would have to become a little slimmer. No, I have to disappoint you, it doesn’t work that way. If you are physically active and exercise, that doesn’t mean you burn 300 calories more a day than someone who hasn’t exercised. Even if your fitness tracker says so.

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