The constant ying yang of weight loss and gain is not only frustrating, it makes you question whether all that hard work in the gym is worth it. Before you pack up your workout gear for good, however, rest assured that gym workouts are well worth the time and effort -- even if those extra pounds stubbornly refuse to disappear.

Exercise has a lot more to offer than just a means to lose weight. Its most important role is the impact it has on health -- especially among those who carry extra pounds.

Most people already know that exercise improves cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of some forms of cancer. What's less well known is that exercise also reduces the health risks associated with carrying extra weight. In fact, several studies suggest that chubby exercisers are healthier than skinny couch potatoes....