This week, we are focusing on the importance of weight training when trying to achieve fat loss.

There is a huge misconception that you shouldn't lift weights when trying to achieve fat loss. Not only is it believed to stunt your results, but it's actually thought to be counterproductive and this couldn't be further from the truth. 

 

Strength training can be greatly beneficial for fat loss because it builds up lean muscle and increases our Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) which will increase the speed of your metabolism. We agree that cardiovascular exercise is probably better for general calorie burning during your workout - the keyword here being ‘during’. Strength training is universally more effective at burning total calories and fat overall. 

 

Let us explain…

 

By increasing muscle mass, you increase your BMR. In its simplest terms, a higher BMR equates to more calories being burned in the space of 24-48 hours. Why is this beneficial for fat loss? Through building lean muscle and increasing your BMR, you burn more calories at rest throughout the day AND increase your overall calorie deficit which is a necessity for fat loss. 

 

During an aerobic, cardiovascular workout, it's widely accepted that more calories are burned than during a typical weight training workout of the same duration. The distinction? While the number on the scale might be reducing, you're also losing a proportionate amount of muscle at the same time. Additionally, it can also slow down your metabolism rather than speed it up. This is a detriment if you're trying to drop body fat. 

 

What's the answer?

 

Increase the intensity and begin to implement a consistent strength training regimen consisting of weight-bearing exercises in conjunction with aerobic activity. This is optimal for any fat loss plan. Oh, and don't forget to hone in on your nutrition as well!

 

For help with achieving your health and fitness goals, get in touch and see how we can work together to get you to where you want to be!