[originaltext] Just about everybody seems to be interested in weight control

Just about everybody seems to be interested in weight control. Some of us weigh just the right amount; others need to gain a few pounds. Most of us "fight to be slim" at some time in our life. Whatever our goals, we should understand and take advantage of the important role of exercise in keeping our weight under control. Carrying around too much body fat is a major trouble. Yet excess body fat is common in modern-day living.(16)Few of today’s occupations require vigorous physical activity, and much of our leisure time is spent sitting still.
    Recent estimates indicate that 34 million adults are considered obese. Also, there has been an increase in body fat levels in children and youth over the past 20 years. After babyhood and early childhood, the earlier the one become obese, the greater the likelihood of remaining obese.(17)Excess body fat has been linked to such health problems as heart disease, high blood pressure and certain forms of cancer.
    Some evidence exists now showing that obesity has a negative effect on both health and life span.
    Exercise is associated with the loss of body fat in both obese and normal weight persons.(18)A regular program of exercise is an important component of any plan to help individuals lose, gain or maintain their weight.