Why Resistance Training is the Key to Weight Loss

Let's face it. We all like shortcuts. And even weight loss is no exception. Most of us have been seduced by the ads that promise us that we can drop weight very quickly without much effort. I have been around the block in terms of these promises and have lost weight only to gain it back after I came off the weight loss routine. However, there is one "fail safe" when it comes to losing weight AND keeping it off....Resistance Training. And resistance training can be an effective weight loss mechanism for people of all ages.

Stop running like a rat on a wheel on that treadmill! It is true. If you ask someone what you should do in order to lose weight, the first thing they are likely going to tell you is to eat less. The second thing they are going to tell you is to do some sort of cardio plan, such as jogging or walking. What most people don't realize is that if you want to truly lose weight and keep it off, the secret is to gain muscle through resistance training.

Resistance Train to Lose Weight

Like I said before, people of all ages should be incorporating resistance training into their weight loss routine. Even elderly people or people over 70 will see noticeable health improvements by simply adding this into their workout.

People who do resistance training will become stronger, more balanced and even build up their bone density which dwindles as we age. Of course there is more benefits, such as helping to keep the weight off but you get the picture.

Resistance Train to Decrease Injuries

And if you are young, you are going to want to stockpile your bone density as soon as you can. Research has shown that resistance training is the #1 way to increase your bone density. From a scientific standpoint, we start to lose bone density as we age. Thus, the reason why many elderly will break bones such as hips when they fall.

If you are a woman, you should really be looking into resistance training because most post-menopausal women are very prone to problems relating to this.

And the best news is that if you couple resistance training with good, sound nutrition, you will be able to not only reduce fat BUT also build lean muscle. Lean muscle, in turn, will help you burn more calories, meaning you will lose more weight. See how the chain of events work in regards to strength training? You work out, do a little strength training and as you get stronger, you burn more fat (because you have to feed the muscles) which in turn will trim you down.

Resistance Train to Lower Your Blood Pressure

Most of you reading this post are more concerned about losing weight but did you know that if you do resistance training, you will also see a noticeable difference in regards to your blood pressure? Research has shown that there is a link between resistance training and a lower blood pressure. Once again, if you add a little strength training to your weight loss regime, you will lose weight AND lower you blood pressure thus reducing your risk of heart disease.

Resistance Train for More Energy

Another perk of resistance training is that the stronger you are, the more energy you will have. Think about it...if your back is stronger, you will not only be able to carry more weight, but the weight you are currently carrying (you body weight that is) will feel much lighter and the longer you will be able to go.

The Benefits of Resistance Training

Before I wrap this up, let's go over the benefits of resistance training for you. If you do resistance training, you will....

• Weight loss
• Muscle Burns Fat
• Look Younger
• Increase your Energy
• Improve strength and bone density
• Reduce the chances of injuries
• Lower your Blood sugar.
• Reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Lower your Blood Pressure.

With all of those benefits, I ask you....how can you not want to add resistance training to your weight loss goals?