Question:

I have heard rumours that it is best to eat back the kilojoules you burn during exercise to prevent not going into starvation mode. I have about 30kgs to lose and have lost 20kg so far but would like to know if the rumours are true. I thought the idea of exercising was to create a deficit.

Answer:

There are many myths surrounding exercise and weight-loss and that is one of them — although it's the first time I've heard it.

As you have 30kg to lose you need to focus on regular exercise (four or five days a week on average) of at least 30 to 45 minutes each time, plus healthy eating.

There is no magic exercise so just focus on an activity you enjoy that gets you moving and your heart pumping. If you don't like exercising outdoors then investing in a treadmill will allow you to exercise indoors to lose weight.

With healthy eating, focus on more protein-based foods, and less processed and carbohydrate based foods. If you need help and ideas with what food to eat check out Michelle Bridges' new book on exercise and weight-loss.

Another good idea is to surround yourself with positive people who are also healthy and active. This will help you stay on track and really help you with support and motivation when you don't feel like exercising.

Dean Piazza — your online personal trainer

Visit www.getfit.com.au to get your free 12-week training diary valued at $19.95.