National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Weight Loss Specialist (WLS) Practice Exam

The component of daily energy expenditure that accurately represents energy used for physical work outside of Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is physical activity. Physical activity encompasses all forms of movement that result in energy expenditure, including exercise, walking, and other daily activities. This component is crucial for weight management and overall health, as it can significantly influence total energy expenditure when combined with BMR and the thermic effect of feeding.

In contrast, resting energy expenditure refers to the energy expended while at rest, which is primarily related to maintaining bodily functions and does not account for physical activity. The thermic effect of feeding only pertains to the energy required to digest, absorb, and process nutrients from food, and is distinct from the energy used during physical tasks. Basal Metabolic Rate, meanwhile, describes the minimum amount of energy needed to maintain vital functions when the body is at rest, also excluding any additional energy used for physical activities. Therefore, physical activity is the correct answer as it directly relates to the energy expended through motion and exercise outside of resting states.