📝 Detailed Answer
Are you planning to rush to the track the moment you start your diet? I understand that enthusiasm well, but in Traditional Korean Medicine, exercise is considered a double-edged sword.
On the positive side, it promotes the circulation of Qi and Blood (Gi-hyeol), facilitating the discharge of metabolic waste known as Phlegm-fluid (Dameum). It also acts as a reliable ally by preventing the muscle loss that often accompanies weight loss, thereby protecting your basal metabolic rate.
However, the problem lies in sudden, high-intensity workouts. Overexerting yourself when your body isn't accustomed to it can easily lead to a state of Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo). When Spleen function weakens and your vital energy is depleted, the body compensates by triggering intense hunger, often leading to a cycle of overeating. Furthermore, jumping into strenuous activity while carrying excess weight can cause Blood Stasis (Eo-hyeol) in the joints, leading to pain that forces many to give up.
Therefore, I do not recommend grand exercise plans initially. Instead, start by 'waking up' your body's circulation with light walks or stretching. It is helpful to view exercise as a supporting role for your overall health rather than the primary driver of weight loss. Assessing your current energy levels and adjusting the intensity accordingly is the true shortcut to a sustainable diet without the yo-yo effect.