This is in contrast to exercise activity thermogenesis, which refers to the energy required to engage in any type of purposeful exercise (fitness, running, skiing, etc.). Simple Daily Doses Add UpĪs one would expect, NEAT corresponds to energy expenditure associated with ADL (Activities of Daily Living). Daily total energy expenditure (TEE) is the net amount of energy utilized by the body to maintain core functions, such as respiration and basic movements. This value is determined by assessing three parameters: basal metabolic rate, the thermic effect of food (how the body digests what it consumes), and the energy spent on physical activity.įurthermore, this total value reflects other factors such as age, body composition, thyroid status, medications and even body temperature. A larger body shape requires more energy to move unfortunately, individuals who are significantly overweight tend not to reap this benefit due to a tendency toward more sedentary lifestyles than their leaner counterparts. Research has revealed that lean individuals stand, walk and fidget significantly more during the day, amassing an additional 350 – calorie expenditure.
Whether we are active or sedentary, our bodies are constantly utilizing energy. Coupled with a focus on the metabolic effect of our food choices, N EAT becomes even more significant. Scientists and exercise physiologists alike agree that individuals struggling with their weight can tap into NEAT as an easy-to-execute, practical tool. There has been much research in this area, as obesity-related disorders such as diabetes continue their rise to epidemic proportions.
Put simply, this translates into the body working smarter throughout the day, resulting in the the use of brown adipose tissue–a desirable outcome for metabolic activity.Īccording to Dr James Levine, the Mayo Clinic scientist who first described the phenomenon of NEAT, its energy expenditure can vary by as many as 2,000 calories a day, depending upon one’s genetics, stature and build. According to the IUPS Thermal Commission, thermogenesis is defined as “heat production due to metabolic energy transformation by processes that do not involve contraction of skeletal muscles”. The Thermogenic Effect of NEATĮnergy expenditure associated with spontaneous movement is referred to as Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis ( NEAT). Are your clients getting bored with endless treadmill sessions, stationary cycles, or counting Stairmaster steps? Or maybe they are so fixated on how many calories they burn during their 30 minute cardio sessions they neglect the remaining 23.5 hours of their waking day? If so, you can pair their resistance training workouts with the NEAT way to achieve wellness.