What Actually Moves the Needle

If metabolism varies less than we thought, what actually matters? Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) — the calories you burn fidgeting, walking, standing, and doing daily tasks.

Some people unconsciously move more. They pace while on the phone, take stairs, or stand while working. These small movements add up dramatically. A person who is "naturally thin" often has high NEAT without realizing it. The results become self-reinforcing once the habit takes hold.