For sedentary individuals, approximately how many minutes of moderate-intensity activity are suggested to prevent weight gain?

For sedentary individuals, approximately how many minutes of moderate-intensity activity are suggested to prevent weight gain?

• A. 60 minutes
• B. 80 minutes
• C. 100 minutes
• D. 120 minutes

Answer: (B)

Raising daily energy expenditure through regular moderate‑intensity activity helps prevent weight gain when your routine is otherwise sedentary. The idea is to pick a level of activity that you can sustain most days, enough to shift the energy balance toward maintenance without making the routine unrealistic.

Moderate intensity means you feel your heart rate up and breathing faster, but you can still talk in full sentences. Brisk walking, cycling on level terrain, or swimming at a casual pace are common examples. You don’t have to do it all at once—splitting activity into shorter bouts throughout the day adds up and remains effective.

If you can’t reach the target, any extra minutes help, and efficiency comes from consistency and gradual progression. The smallest amount tends to be too little to offset sedentary energy intake, while the largest amount may be harder to sustain for many people; the middle option offers a practical, effective balance that’s realistic to maintain for preventing weight gain.