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The prevalence of obesity is higher in black than in white women. Differences in energy economy and physical activity may contribute to this difference.

The objective of this study was to compare free-living energy expenditure and physical activity in black and white women before and after weight loss.

Participants were 18 white and 14 black women with body mass indexes (in kg/m²) between 27 and 30. Diet, without exercise, was used to achieve a weight loss of ≥10 kg and a body mass index <25. After 4 wk of energy balance in overweight and normal-weight states, body composition was assessed by using a 4-compartment model, sleeping and resting energy expenditures were assessed by using a chamber calorimeter, physiologic stress of exercise and exercise economy were measured by using standardized exercise tasks, and daily energy expenditure was assessed by using …