Exercise increases total energy expenditure

A pre‑registered study finds that initiating physical activity raises total energy expenditure without measurable physiological compensation (no reduced fidgeting, thyroid suppression, or biomarker evidence of offset). This undermines 'constrained energy' models that argue exercise yields little net caloric burn and supports exercise as a genuine lever in energy‑balance and obesity policy. — If robust, the finding strengthens the case for exercise promotion as a cost‑effective public‑health intervention and should recalibrate debates about the most effective population strategies to reduce obesity.