Many people think that cardio is the only way to lose weight, but that’s not true. Resistance training, also known as strength training or weightlifting, can be just as effective, if not more effective, for weight loss. Not only does it burn calories, but it also builds muscle, which can boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories throughout the day.
Here are some of the top benefits of resistance training for weight loss:
- Burns calories: While cardio burns calories during the workout, resistance training burns calories both during and after the workout. This is due to something called the “afterburn effect,” which means that your body continues to burn calories even after you’ve stopped exercising.
- Builds muscle: Resistance training builds muscle, which can help you burn more calories throughout the day. Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, which means that it requires more energy to maintain. By building muscle, you can boost your metabolism and burn more calories, even when you’re not exercising.
- Improves body composition: Resistance training can help you lose fat and gain muscle, which can improve your body composition. This means that you can lose inches and dress sizes, even if the number on the scale doesn’t change much.
- Increases strength and bone density: Resistance training can help increase your strength and bone density, which is important for overall health and wellness. As you age, your bone density naturally decreases, which can increase your risk of osteoporosis. By lifting weights, you can help maintain your bone density and reduce your risk of fractures.
- Reduces the risk of injury: Resistance training can help strengthen your muscles and joints, which can reduce the risk of injury. This is especially important if you participate in other activities that require strength and endurance, such as running, cycling, or playing sports.
If you’re new to resistance training, it’s important to start slowly and work with a qualified trainer to ensure that you’re using proper form and technique. You should also make sure to give your muscles time to rest and recover between workouts.
In addition to resistance training, it’s important to eat a healthy, balanced diet to support your weight loss goals. This includes plenty of protein to support muscle growth and repair, as well as complex carbohydrates and healthy fats for energy.
Overall
Resistance training can be a powerful tool for weight loss and overall health and wellness. By combining resistance training with a healthy diet and lifestyle, you can achieve your weight loss goals and enjoy all of the benefits of a strong, healthy body.