Let the groaning start.

Yes, it’s one more report about the obesity epidemic in America. This is old news, right? We all know we’re a nation of healthy eaters and even healthier waistlines. But, that report comes with a bit of a twist.

You can indeed be both fat and fit - eureka!

Dr. Steven N. Blair.

The study assigned society to one of five fitness levels, based on body mass index, waist circumference, and body fat percentage. The results speak well of leading an active lifestyle. Those in the lowest fifth fitness level were four times more likely to die than those in the highest fifth. That’s a huge difference - yes, pardon the pun.

But, there is some very good news. The study found that even moderate exercise has a positive health impact, allowing sedentary individuals to escape the lowest fitness levels. A simple routine of walking 30 minutes each day, five

“It is possible for many older Americans to improve their fitness,” Blair said. “The good news from that study is that they don’t have to be thin to benefit from being physically active.”

The bottom line? Get off the scale and move those chubby toes on down the path. You’ll not only enjoy the fresh air, but add some years to your life in the process.

To read more about the study, see that from Reuters. To read more about the health benefits of walking, see that from About.com.