This kind of evaluation is in some ways a more objective way of measuring the body's response to pain, as opposed to simply asking someone if they feel pain.

Our findings show the importance of looking at objective as well as subjective measurements of how the body responds to pain stimuli.

The relaxation procedure helped both groups cope with pain. Additionally, our tests showed both groups had higher physical pain thresholds after the relaxation session. But the obese participants still had a lower threshold for tolerating the pain.

Some studies say that obese people are more tolerant of pain, while other studies say they are less tolerant.

The relaxation procedure helped both groups cope with pain.

This is important because if an obese person begins an exercise program, he may not cognitively experience pain when in fact it is hurting the body on some level. That could lead to severe pain down the road.