Could tuning in to your favorite radio station help you trim down? Recent research says yes! So don that iPod or slip on that old school Walkman, because music can help keep you moving.
According to Christopher A. Capuano, Ph.D., director of the school of psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, NJ, one of the biggest barriers to long-term weight control is lack of adherence to an exercise regimen.
"Exercising can be difficult for someone who is obese. Walking to music seemed to really motivate the women in our study to get out there and stick with the commitment they made," said Dr. Capuano.
Researchers evaluated the effects of music on exercise adherence in 41 women who were overweight to moderately obese as part of a 24-week weight loss program that included dieting, exercise and group meetings.
The women walked alone for at least two days per week and participated in a weekly group walk. Half of the women used a portable CD player and listened to the music of their choice while walking. The other half did not listen to music.
At the end of the study, both groups of women lost weight, but those who walked to music lost significantly more weight and body fat.
Additionally, the music group adhered better to the program and fewer of them dropped out of the study.
Be sure to check out our Workout and Walking Music Top Picks for great CDs that will keep your feet moving and your heart pumping.
