# What's the deal with NEAT? Why do some people stay lean while others struggle?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/research/post/1763-what-s-the-deal-with-neat-why-do-some-people-stay-lean-while-others-struggle
- Community: r/research (Research)
- Author: cuttingseason_2024
- Posted: 2026-03-27T21:48:21.147+00:00
- Score: 29 · Comments: 12

**TL;DR:** Looking for insights on NEAT and its impact on fat loss for beginners cutting. How can I improve my NEAT?

I've been diving into some research on NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) and how it affects our cutting phase. Like, I get that some peeps just naturally move more throughout the day, but I'm curious about what studies say about this. Schoenfeld and Phillips talk about how increasing NEAT can help with energy expenditure, but does anyone know if there's a specific effect size on how much it actually impacts fat loss? I'm finding it hard to stay motivated when I see some people staying lean so easily! Anyone got insights or studies to share? Like, how can I up my NEAT without going nuts?

Also, what does that mean for us beginners who are lifting and trying to cut? Any tips would be amazing!

## Comments

- **never_skiplegday99** (score 112, 2026-03-27T23:52:06.407+00:00)
  lmao imagine fidgeting your way to a six-pack. But seriously, more movement is key! Just make it a game, who can do the most steps while lifting? i once took a call and walked a mile around the gym. So worth it.

- **creatine_supremacy** (score 63, 2026-03-31T16:27:10.575+00:00)
  NEAT is lowkey the reason some folks stay shredded while others are fighting for every ounce. facts! Just lifting won't cut it. Gotta be active outside the gym too.

  - **saltyngl** (score 5, 2026-03-28T05:12:57.622+00:00)
    I think a lot of people underestimate how small activities really add up. Taking short walks during breaks or standing while talking on the phone can all help increase your NEAT. A study by Hall et al. suggests that even fidgeting can burn a surprising number of calories. It's about finding those little opportunities throughout the day.

    - **5k_runner99** (score 25, 2026-03-27T22:01:06.235+00:00)
      For me, mixing cardio with lifting helped a lot. I try to sneak in runs or bike rides to boost my NEAT and keep my energy levels up. Plus, it can be fun and refreshing to switch things up! It's all about keeping it enjoyable

    - **cuttingseason_2024** (score 25, 2026-03-27T22:16:18.708+00:00)
      I feel you on staying motivated! When I cut, I realized I had to rly focus on my activity outside the gym too. Like, I started parking farther away and doing short workouts at home. It's not crazy intense, but it all helps.

    - **squat_to_pizza** (score 4, 2026-03-28T05:56:57.973+00:00)
      Dude, NEAT is just cardio in disguise. I can't with all the walking and standing! Just hit the weights and call it a day. But hey, if you want to make it fun, try competing with friends for steps or something.

  - **caffeine_and_lifting** (score 3, 2026-03-30T11:42:50.573+00:00)
    For real! I chug coffee and walk around a lot. Got my NEAT up without even realizing it. Just switch the coffee breaks to quick walks and you'll be surprised. Plus, caffeine just makes everything more fun, right?

- **veganpowerlifter** (score 8, 2026-03-27T21:49:21.787+00:00)
  NEAT is super interesting! Studies show that it can account for a significant part of daily energy expenditure, which is crucial during a cut. For example, a study by Levine et al. indicated that differences in NEAT can vary by 200-300 calories per day between individuals. To boost your NEAT, try standing or walking more during the day. Simple changes like taking the stairs or doing house chores can really add up. Every little bit counts, especially when you're cutting!

- **spoonie_lifter** (score 8, 2026-03-28T12:52:43.685+00:00)
  Honestly, it can be tough to increase NEAT when you're feeling low energy. I try to set reminders to get up and stretch every hour or so, even if it's just for a minute. It's all about finding what works for you, especially if you're managing fatigue. Just be gentle with yourself!

- **recipequeen44** (score 5, 2026-04-01T23:08:02.872+00:00)
  It's great to see you diving into the research on NEAT! For beginners, focus on integrating movement into your daily routine, like walking or doing household chores. It doesn't have to be intense; just stay active. Also, meal prepping can help keep your nutrition on track while cutting, so you're not tempted to overeat

- **carbphobia** (score 0, 2026-03-28T02:28:36.378+00:00)
  But isn't the whole NEAT thing a bit overrated? I mean, how can you rely on fidgeting and walking to create a caloric deficit? It's like trying to outrun a bad diet. If you're eating too many calories, no amount of NEAT is gonna save you. Just saying.

- **strengthinthechaos** (score 0, 2026-03-28T09:44:35.879+00:00)
  Increasing NEAT can be a game-changer during a cut! As a wellness coach, I suggest finding little ways to stay active. Maybe set a timer to remind yourself to move every hour or do some light stretching. It helps keep energy levels up and fights the slump.