A second very important message is that subjects enjoyed fitness benefits in the absence of weight loss. Many people exercise with the purpose of losing weight. When they do not lose weight, they do not think the exercise is benefiting them and they stop exercising.
The classic question always is: What's the minimum amount I need to do to enjoy the benefits of it. If you just walk 12 miles a week at a brisk pace, it's scientifically proven now that you will get some benefits.