If you want to slim down, why would you do weight training? Weight training may seem like something to avoid if you don’t want to get too bulky. But it’s a great way to build lean muscle and is an important part of a lighter, healthy lifestyle for both men and women.
Why Does Weight Training Help You Lose Weight?
The more muscle you have, the better your body burns calories. That’s because muscle tissue burns calories at a faster rate than the same amount of fat tissue. Plus, the energy muscles use during and after strength exercise increases your metabolism. For every pound of muscle you add, your metabolism increases to burn about 50 calories more per day.
Weight training, also known as strength training, tones and firms your muscles, and increases the amount of muscle tissue in your body. Weight training also preserves your muscle mass, which means that you’ll have an easier time keeping extra pounds off.
Is Strength Training the Only Kind of Exercise for Weight Loss?
Strength training for weight loss complements your cardiovascular exercise plan. Cardio exercise burns calories, and improves circulation and overall health. Weight training builds muscles. Strength training is excellent for overall health, too. It increases bone density, which reduces the risk of osteoporosis, and boosts your energy.
Equipment Is Optional
Weight training doesn’t require purchasing equipment. Body weight training uses your own weight as the resistance. These exercises include pushups, pull-ups, and crunches. Yoga and dance exercises also do an excellent job to increase your strength with moves that gently lift or pose the body.
Equipment used for weight training can be simple. Basic equipment includes using small free weights, or elastic bands that provide resistance.
Why check with a doctor before starting an exercise program?
It is important to consult a doctor before starting an exercise program. Your doctor will be more familiar with your current condition and can address concerns that are unique to you. When you exercise with weight loss as your goal, your doctor can help you put together a program that’s right for you – one that you may even enjoy.
Get Specialized Help With Weight Loss at the Optimal Wellness Center
Dr. Keller makes a commitment with you to help you succeed in becoming lighter and healthier. Find out more about the support available to you in Dr. Keller’s weight Loss Program.
Dr. Betty Keller is a board certified doctor specializing in weight loss and disease prevention, serving Ridgewood, Wyckoff, NJ, and nearby areas. She practices integrative medicine at the Optimal Wellness Center in Ridgewood, New Jersey.