Fig. 2.

Comparison of weight-loss-independent benefits in terms of hepatic steatosis, stiffness, and FAST-Score.

(A) Liver steatosis, stiffness, and FAST-Score. E_total n = 54, W_total n = 29. Dark grey bars: E_total; light grey bars: W_total (means ± SEMs). ∗p <0.05, ∗∗p <0.01, between the groups. ^†p < 0.05, ^‡p <0.01, for baseline vs. 3 months. Within-group changes over time, between baseline and 3 months, for all variables were compared using paired t tests and independent t tests. (B) Weight-loss-independent benefits of exercise. E_total n = 54, W_total n = 29. The per 1% weight loss from each group, reduced percentages of liver steatosis, stiffness, and FAST-Score are shown. The exercise regimen reduced liver steatosis by 12.2%, liver stiffness by 8.6% and FAST-Score by 22.2% per 1% weight loss. In comparison, the weight-loss regimen reduced liver steatosis by 2.7%, liver stiffness by 1.8%, and FAST-Score by 5.8% per 1% weight loss. These results revealed that the exercise regimen reduced liver steatosis by an additional 9.5%, liver stiffness by an additional 6.8%, and FAST-Score by an additional 16.4%, when compared with those of the weight-loss-related benefit as a result of the weight-loss regimen (indicated by black bars). These additional benefits of the exercise regimen show independent effects of exercise that are not associated with weight loss.