Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), also known as non-exercise physical activity (NEPA),[1] is energy expenditure during activities that are not part of a structured exercise program. NEAT includes physical activity at the workplace, hobbies, standing instead of sitting, walking around, climbing stairs, doing chores, and fidgeting.[2][3] Besides differences in body composition, it represents most of the variation in energy expenditure across individuals and populations, accounting from 6-10 percent to as much as 50 percent of energy expenditure in highly active individuals.[4]
Relationship with obesity
NEAT is the main component of activity-related energy expenditure in obese individuals, as most do not do any physical exercise. NEAT is also lower in obese individuals than the general population.[4]
NEAT may be reduced in individuals who have lost weight, which some hypothesize contributes to difficulties in achieving and sustaining weight loss.[1]
In Western countries, occupations have shifted from physical labor to sedentary work, which results in a loss of energy expenditure. Strenuous physical labor can require 1500 calories or more per day than desk work.[3]
Relationship with exercise
It is debated whether there is a significant reduction in NEAT after beginning a structured exercise program.[5][6][7]
Health benefits
Lack of NEAT is posited as an explanation for health harms for prolonged sitting.[8]
Measurement
Accelerometers and questionnaires can be used to estimate NEAT.[4]