Aerobic Sex? Just Another Weight-Loss Myth

A new report in a medical journal looks at some common beliefs about obesity and weight loss, and finds them a little thin on proof. Among the obesity myths is the one about sex burning 100 to 300 calories. Since it lasts about 6 minutes, on average, that total is way too high, the authors say. They also say it’s not true that small changes over time lead to a large weight loss. The body’s energy needs will change, so you’ll lose less than you expect. School gym classes also don’t reduce obesity because they are too short or not intense enough. It’s also a myth that losing weight slowly is better than losing a lot fast, the authors say. Research shows that people who take the slow approach often lose less in the long run. The New England Journal of Medicine published the study. The Associated Press (AP) wrote about it January 31.