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Water aerobics helpful in weight loss?

Page last modified on: October 7, 2008

Question from Mamat: I have gained 25 pounds since my mastectomy in August 2003. I do water aerobics and tried Pilates, which was too tough for me. I am 75.: Answer —Miriam Nelson, Ph.D.: In terms of weight control, water aerobics is helpful but land exercise will probably have more impact: walking, dancing, activities where you're burning more energy. But then, the science shows us right now with long-term weight control that physical activity is crucial, but if women don't address eating more healthily and taking in fewer calories, weight loss doesn't happen. There is a lot of debate right now about the contribution of nutrition and physical activity to weight control. I think it's 50/50, but some think 75% is about appetite suppression, food choices, and the environment of the people—where they shop, where and when they eat, etc. Any time weight control is an issue, you really have to look at nutrition as well.

On Wednesday, January 18, 2006, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Physical Activity and Breast Cancer. Miriam Nelson, Ph.D., Julie Gralow, M.D., and moderator Judith Sachs answered your questions about the many issues related to physical activity and breast cancer.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Miriam Nelson, Ph.D. is the author of the international best-sellers Strong Women Stay Young; Strong Women Stay Slim;Strong Women, Strong Bones; and other titles. She is Director of the John Hancock Center for Physical Activity and Nutrition and Associate Professor of Nutrition at the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University.

Julie Gralow, M.D. is associate professor of medical oncology specializing in breast cancer at the University of Washington and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and director of breast medical oncology at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

Judith Sachs is a health educator, writer, speaker, and former member of the Breastcancer.org editorial team.