Exercise approaches in obese individuals with physical limitations.

Abstract

Obesity is a clinical condition characterized by weight gain and a progressively increasing prevalence that poses a significant threat to human health. It may also predispose individuals to numerous chronic diseases. Physical limitations such as musculoskeletal problems (e.g., osteoarthritis and low back pain), spinal cord injuries, hemiplegia, and other comorbidities both increase the development of obesity and make exercise participation more difficult in obese patients. This review summarizes current evidence regarding exercise approaches used in obese individuals with physical limitations and clinically evaluates aerobic, resistance, and flexibility exercises.