Lift Weight to Lose Weight

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Lift Weight to Lose Weight

Our metabolism slows down as we age, increasing our belt size and the resulting weight can lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and several forms of cancer that are associated with obesity. But, you can do something about it before it's too late!

One good option is weight training.

Most of us have been told that weight training does not burn as many calories as aerobic exercise (running, step-benching, treadmill, walking, biking, swimming, etc.). Therefore, many who want to lose weight will focus on aerobics for cardiovascular exercise, while missing out on the many benefits of weight lifting.

Don't misunderstand; cardiovascular exercise is essential to long-term health but it is important to understand that it does little to offset our slowing metabolisms as we age.

Past age 30 or so, most people start losing muscle mass. Because muscle is so metabolically active (which means it requires a lot of calories to do its thing), a drop in muscle weight means your body needs fewer calories. Cardiovascular exercise, although good for burning calories, does not beef up muscles the way weight training can.

To implement a consistent strength training program, do the following:

Do some weight bearing exercises two or three days a week, and be sure to work your entire body.
Be patient. It may take several months to see the desired effect.
Challenge yourself. Use a bit more weight than you think you can handle, to make muscle tissue stronger and denser over time. Most beginners go too easy.
Have a qualified personal trainer evaluate your regime. You do not have to join a gym. Trainers are widely available and can set up a home program for you.