When it comes to weight loss, many people instinctively think of cardio exercises like running or cycling. But what if we told you that weight training, with its clanging dumbbells and grunting gym-goers, could be your secret weapon in the battle of the bulge? We’re about to lift the veil on the ironclad relationship between weight training and weight loss.
Muscle
Weight training, also known as strength or resistance training, is all about building muscle. Muscles are like little calorie-burning powerhouses, and the more you have, the more calories you burn—even at rest!
The Fat-Burning Furnace
Muscle tissue is metabolically active, which means it requires energy (calories) to maintain itself. When you engage in weight training and build muscle, you’re essentially revving up your metabolism
The Afterburn Effect
Weight training induces what’s called the “afterburn effect” or excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). After a weight training session, your body continues to burn calories as it repairs and replenishes muscle tissue.
Fat vs. Muscle
Muscle takes up less space than fat. So, as you build muscle, you’ll get leaner and more toned, even if the number on the scale doesn’t change much.
Plateaus
Many people hit weight loss plateaus with cardio alone. Incorporating weight training can break through these plateaus and keep your progress going.
The Fat-To-Muscle Swap
Weight training helps you lose fat while preserving and building lean muscle. This is crucial because losing muscle along with fat can lead to a slower metabolism
The Perfect Partnership: Cardio and Weight Training
Cardio is fantastic for burning calories, but it’s weight training that shapes and sculpts your body. Combining both forms of exercise creates a dynamic duo for weight loss.
