Final answer:
EPOC, or Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption, refers to the increased oxygen demand by the body after exercise. It is significant in weight management as it can increase calorie expenditure and promote fat loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
EPOC, or Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption, refers to the amount of oxygen consumed by the body after exercise to restore the body to its pre-exercise state. It is the increased oxygen demand that occurs due to the body's need for energy to repair tissues, replenish energy stores, and remove metabolic waste. EPOC can be explained to an uninformed client as the 'afterburn effect,' where the body continues to burn calories even after the exercise session.
The significance of EPOC in weight management lies in its ability to increase calorie expenditure and promote fat loss. High-intensity exercises, such as weightlifting and interval training, create a significant EPOC response, leading to a higher calorie burn for an extended period post-exercise. This can contribute to weight loss and the improvement of body composition when combined with a proper nutrition plan.