A new study has shown for the first time what happens at a genetic level when we exercise. The findings add a whole new level of support to the idea that regular exercise helps people lose weight. We know that exercising requires your body to burn fats, carbohydrates or protein to obtain fuel, but this study shows there is a lot more going on than just that.

The study followed a group of “slightly overweight” people in their mid 30s who did not have a history of regular exercise. They were asked to do 3 sessions a week but only averaged 1.8. The sessions included things like spinning classes or aerobic exercise.

According to the researchers, regular exercise, even if it is just in small doses, can alter our DNA. The effect of this particular change was to alter the way fat is stored in cells. So apart from actually burning fat while you exercise, after exercise your body is less inclined to store fat in the future. I call that a DOUBLE WIN!

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