Does Gaining Muscle = Losing Weight?

 We tend to think of eliminating in order to lose weight, but when it comes to strength training, adding muscle can help you lose weight. Add strength training to your cardio routine and give your weight loss goals an extra boost.

Having strong muscle is important for so many reasons including that extra burn of calories your body experiences even while at rest. When you strength train you’re building lean muscle mass which helps keep your metabolism revving. Noam Tamir, C.S.C.S. explains, “Muscle is constantly being broken down, recreated, and synthesized, and all these processes require energy. The more muscle you have, the more energy it takes for this process.” So while your muscle is building you’re increasing your calorie deficit as well, and, you must have less calories to lose the weight.
 
And, don’t worry about losing out on cardio during your strength training, you can simply add cardio elements to any workout. For example, don’t rest between sets, increase the weight you use, and add cardio moves in between weights - high knees, jumping jacks or squats will do the trick.
 
In addition to the benefit of losing weight that strength training provides you an look forward to protecting your bone health and muscle mass. This is particularly important to women, as well as seniors – remember, if you don’t use it you’ll lose it. It also helps develop better body mechanics which can help reduce your risk of falling, can help prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, and can increase your energy level and mood. And, the great thing is you don’t have to go to the gym to add strength training into your exercise routine, using your own at-home dumbbells is a perfect solution. You can find these at your local sports store and they often come in weights from one pound to 15. Start adding in strength training now and get ready for a leaner you!

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There are so many reasons to start strength training and at Functional Performance Fitness. Natatia and her team will be happy to help you work strength training into your exercise routine. Contact Natatia and her team about starting your strength training routine and get stronger, happier and healthier!