Hit the Weights

When I was a freshman in college, low fat diets and Jazzercise were all the rage.  Obviously it didn't work out as planned because obesity rates have continued to increase.  Since that time we have learned that strength training is where it's at for weight loss and weight maintenance.  But still there are women with the mindset that they must avoid gaining "bulky muscles."  So they avoid the weight equipment in favor of the stair stepper and elliptical machines.  If you are one of these women you are missing out!

Don't get me wrong, cardio is great.  There is no substitute for heart healthy benefits of cardiovascular strength. But the fat burning benefits stop when you climb off the machine.  For weight loss, strength training is the ticket.  Building, or even just maintaining, lean muscle tissue keeps your metabolism nice and  high so you can EAT MORE.  I'm all for eating more...of the good stuff, that is.  Increased muscle mass keeps your fat burning furnace on all day.  Even when you're in front of the TV.  I'm in!

 

 5 Benefits of Strength Training

1) Increased Metabolic Rate- adding muscle increases our metabolism.
2) Increasing and Restoring Bone Density- prevent and fight osteoporosis by building strong bones.
3) Increased Lean Muscle Mass- each pound of lean muscle mass burns 35-50 calories per day.
4) Injury Prevention- a solid foundation strengthens our bones, ligaments, and tendons.
5) Improved Balance- strong leg and core muscles help stabilize us.

The best exercise recipe would be a combo of cardio and strength training.  Half and half.  But in a pinch I would choose the weight training.