Strength training, also known as resistance training, involves using weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises to build strength and muscle mass. Strength training is an effective way to increase muscle mass, improve bone density, and boost your metabolism.
While both cardio and strength training can help you lose weight, studies have shown that strength training may be more effective for fat loss. Here are a few reasons why:
Which is Better for Fat Loss?
While both cardio and strength training can help you lose weight, studies have shown that strength training may be more effective for fat loss. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Strength training boosts your metabolism
When you strength train, you build muscle mass. Muscle is more metabolically active than fat, meaning it burns more calories at rest. This means that the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn throughout the day, even when you’re not working out. In fact, one study found that after a strength training workout, participants burned an additional 100 calories per day, on average.
2. Strength training preserves muscle mass
When you lose weight, you not only lose fat, but you also lose muscle. This can slow down your metabolism and make it harder to keep the weight off in the long run. Strength training can help prevent this muscle loss by building and preserving muscle mass. This means that you’ll be able to maintain a higher metabolism even as you lose weight.
3. Strength training can burn more calories than cardio
While cardio burns more calories during the workout, strength training can burn more calories overall. This is because strength training can create an afterburn effect, where your body continues to burn calories after the workout is over. In fact, one study found that participants burned more calories in the 24 hours after a strength training workout than they did after a cardio workout.
In conclusion:
While both cardio and strength training have benefits, strength training may be a better choice for fat loss. Strength training can boost your metabolism, preserve muscle mass, and burn more calories overall. Incorporating strength training into your fitness routine can help you reach your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy weight in the long run.
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