Advertisement
question

Why is strength training important for weight loss?

National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer
Strength training helps you lose weight in two ways. First weight training, especially intense weight training burns large amounts of calories both during and after the workout. Secondly, strength training helps you build and maintain the muscle you have, which helps keep your metabolism from slowing down. 
Jonathan Penney
Jonathan Penney on behalf of National Academy of Sports Medicine
Fitness Specialist
answer

All too often individuals get caught up in the thought that in order to lose weight, I must do cardiovascular activity all the time.  But strength training will truly add to your chances of weight loss.  The answer is simple, strength training will help increase your lean muscle mass, with increase lean muscle mass you will have an increased metabolism, with a higher metabolism, the easier it will be to burn calories and lose weight.

 

Continue Learning about Strength Training & Exercise

4 reasons to strength train as you age
4 reasons to strength train as you age
Regular exercise is vital to health at any age, but especially as we get older—and become more prone to joint and muscle stiffness, and orthopedic inj...
Read More
Why should I do shoulder-strengthening exercises?
Why should I do shoulder-strengthening exercises? As the least stable joint in your body, your shoul...
More Answers
My hands get tired and sore after I lift weights, what can I do?
My hands get tired and sore after I lift weights, what can I do? Alleviate tired and sore hands afte...
More Answers
Why does my neck hurt when I lift hand weights?
Why does my neck hurt when I lift hand weights? When lifting even light hand weights in a standing o...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.