The Continuing Education Unit at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences for Women, University of Baghdad, hosted a training workshop titled (Balancing Exercise, Healthy Nutrition, and Weight Loss), under the patronage of the Dean, Prof. Dr. Fatima Abd Malih, and the supervision of the unit’s head, Prof. Dr. Lamia Abdul Sattar. The workshop was conducted by two lecturers from the College of Science at the University of Baghdad: Lect. Dr. Wijdan Sabaih Hussein and Asst. Lect. Ghufran Jamal.
The speakers discussed balancing physical performance with proper nutrition for effective weight loss. They highlighted the challenges resulting from physiological and hormonal conditions that influence the nature of the female body. The session emphasized the critical role of nutrition in supporting athletic performance by supplying the energy required for training and enhancing muscle recovery.
They also addressed the role of physical exercise in weight loss by increasing calorie burn, creating a caloric deficit, improving metabolism, and building muscle mass, which boosts fat burning. Additionally, such exercises enhance mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.
The workshop reviewed suitable exercises for weight loss, such as aerobic activities (walking, running, swimming, and cycling), resistance training, weightlifting, and compound exercises that combine strength and endurance.
The session concluded with essential recommendations, including consulting a sports nutritionist to design appropriate dietary programs that align with training goals and weight loss and adopting a gradual approach to weight reduction to avoid negative impacts on performance. Emphasis was also placed on maintaining nutritional balance by distributing proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to support recovery and muscle growth.
This workshop achieved several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: Quality Education and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.