Is Weight Lifting or Cardio Exercise Better for Losing Weight?

When people get back into weight loss routines, many typically will start a diet and some will try exercise as well. If you want to lose weight and keep it off, one of the best ways is going on an exercise program. These programs can be fairly complicated to a beginner since there are so many conflicting ideas. One common question is whether cardio or weight lifting is more effective for losing weight.

Cardio does have its advantages. There are health benefits that are great for anyone. When it comes to burning fat and calories, cardio does do what it's supposed to do. If your eating plan isn't too high in calories, you will notice a difference because this type of exercise does burn fat off your body and helps you thin out. While it does do what it's designed to do, it might not be as effective as weight lifting.

Weight lifting is something that many avoid, especially women. The advantages of building muscles are numerous. Muscle added to the body helps you burn fat throughout the day. While it might seem like a slow process, it helps. While muscle does add weight, it helps you lower your body fat percentage. Muscle also holds the fat that you do have on your body better.

If you had to pick one or the other, weights will give you better long-term results and make you look better. You might not lose as many pounds since you are adding weight in terms of muscle, but your body will look better.

To maximize your gains, do the minimum cardio that is required for health - about three to five times a week for at least 30 minutes - and focus instead on building muscle. This is a great strategy for anyone to help get back in shape through exercise.