Want to lose weight? Lift Weights! by Adela Patoni

​There is a misconception that Weightlifting will only make you bulky, or that muscle will turn into fat once you stop lifting weights. The only way to get bulky is to consume a ton of calories and have a very strict training. It takes a lot of effort to get big muscles. About muscle turning into fat, muscle is muscle and fat is fat, you can not turn one into the other. The truth is that strength training has a lot of benefits starting with helping losing weight.

When people think about losing weight normally Cardio is what comes to their mind. Cardio exercises like running, swimming, or cycling can help losing weight indeed, but while aerobic exercise burns fat and muscle, Strength training helps to increase muscle mass while burning basically only fat.
 
Having more muscle and less fat will help your metabolic system to be more effective, which helps to burn more calories throughout the day, including at rest.  Why is that? Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, also the body will continue to use energy throughout the day to repair muscle fibers.
 
Of course, lifting weights alone it is not enough for losing weight. Having a balanced exercise routine and keeping a healthy diet should be also part of the plan.

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Are there any more benefits about lifting weights? Absolutely! Besides helping to lose fat, Strength training helps to slim down, get toned and firm. This happens because muscle takes up less space than fat. It also helps to boost mood and energy and improves bone density. Strong muscles will help maintain a good form, have better balance and stability which in the end will prevent injuries.
 
My recommendation here is: Break the myth and hit the gym! You would be amazed about what a good consistent training program can do for your health and your body.  ​

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