While there’s no denying that weight and resistance training are great for building a toned and strong body, if you want to lose weight, there’s only one way to go: aerobic training. In a randomised trial which analysed the bodily changes to those who were overweight or obese, researchers looked at three modes of exercise and the effects.
Aerobic exercise consists of activities such as walking, swimming and running, and has been shown to have positive effects in those who wish to lose weight. Resistance training has, of late, been proven to be great for increasing the body’s metabolic rate, as well as showing health benefits such as improving glucose control. For burning fat mass though, there has been no conclusive evidence that resistance training can be beneficial.
In the study, participants were assigned to three groups and asked to perform different exercises – resistance training three times a week, aerobic training for twelve miles per week, and a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises three days a week. Those who were assigned to exercises involving aerobic activities showed higher results for weight loss than just resistance training – in fact, those in the resistance training group actually gained weight due to the increase in lean body mass.
While no singular type of exercise will ever show benefits for every body type or goal, there is now proof that resistance training on its own won’t provide you with the results you’re looking for with regards to weight loss. It is important to remember, as well, that exercise and the benefits are age-specific. Older adults who experience muscle atrophy will find that resistance training is beneficial to them. However, younger people will see better results with aerobic training. If you want to reduce your fat and body mass, the best option is to choose aerobic training – resistance training simply doesn’t offer great results in terms of burning fat.
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