Weight training and pumping the body up are generally associated with packing on the muscle, and for good reason because that is exactly what it can do. However, pumping the weights is just as much a tool for losing fat and trimming down as it is for building up. The weights are often looked at as an intimidating thing if you’ve never used them. But should they be a part of your training? Well the answer is probably yes and here’s why.
Weight training uses your muscles in a way which cardio doesn’t offer. The stress placed on our muscles as we lift, push and pull a weight causes the muscle fibres to breakdown. Why would you want to breakdown a muscle? Well when you do that, the process of recovery starts, the muscle begins to utilise fuel and nutrients to replenish and repair this breakdown. This means the body starts to work a little harder and becomes more efficient at processing fuel, this boosts the metabolism which is one of the main factors for weight gain or weight loss. As the body does this over a period of time and muscle is built it works much more efficiently leading to reduced fat gain and if weight training is made part of your regular training you will see many more physical and mental benefits.
- Jack Sweeney
