Being able to lift heavier objects and increasing bone density is only two benefits that strength training provides. Along with a healthy diet, doing squats, lunges, and other resistance exercises that target muscles will help you shed pounds. To understand why strength training should be part of your weight loss workout, below are specific ways it helps burn fat. 

3 Reasons Strength Training Is Beneficial for Fat Loss

1. Burn More Calories While at Rest

Strength training builds muscle mass. While the body is at rest, every pound of muscle burns approximately six calories. Every pound of fat only burns two calories. This means replacing fat with muscle will significantly boost how many calories your body naturally burns when not actively exercising.

2. Build Strength to Maximize Workouts

As you age, the body loses muscle. Strength training won’t only supplement the natural loss, but it also ensures the tissue is strong and lean. With stronger muscles, you can increase the intensity and length of workouts. This, in turn, can help you burn more calories to lose weight faster.  

3. Continue to Burn Fat After Workouts

Although you will burn fat while running, hiking, and performing other aerobic exercises, metabolism activity will return to normal quickly after the workout. When you practice isometric resistance exercises, where muscles are contracted against a non-moving object, or isotonic training, where muscles are contracted through a range of motions, excess post-exercise oxygen consumption increases. This means your metabolism will remain elevated long after the workout. 

For encouragement and a customized plan to help burn body fat, contact the personal trainers at Pro-Fit in Lithonia, GA. In addition to one-on-one strength training sessions, the professionals also provide group fitness training focused on cardio or working out certain muscles for specific sports. Visit the fitness center online to learn more about classes and call (770) 856-9796 for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss gym membership options. View videos from their training sessions on Facebook.