Obesity is a growing epidemic and major health risk that can be addressed through diet and exercise. Losing weight requires burning more calories than consuming through both eating less and increasing physical activity. Exercise is important for weight loss for several reasons - it elevates metabolism, boosts calorie burning, and improves mood. While intense workouts may not be realistic long-term, small increases in daily activity like taking stairs can make a difference. For weight loss, exercise needs to raise heart rate for at least 20 minutes several times per week. Finding enjoyable forms of exercise like dance or videos that can be done at home or in water help make exercise routines sustainable.