A recent study has backed up Elliott Upton’s claim that weight training does not make women bigger. The systematic review, published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, analyzed 31 studies on resistance training, aerobic training, and concurrent training.
Researchers found that while aerobic training and concurrent training led to greater absolute fat loss, strength training performed just as well in lowering body fat percentage. Body fat percentage is a more accurate indicator of health than BMI, reflecting actual body fat and distinguishing between fat and muscle mass.
Adding muscle through strength training increases resting metabolic rate, burning more calories throughout the day. Conversely, losing muscle reduces calorie burn, making it harder to lose fat. The study also found resistance training to be more effective at preserving lean muscle mass than aerobic training.
This new evidence challenges the long-held myth that cardio is the gold standard for getting lean. While cardio is vital for heart health, adding strength training can support a more holistic approach to fitness and longevity. Diversifying your training routine can lead to better results, as it does with diet and nutrition.
Source: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/fitness/strength-training/a65461789/weight-training-fat-loss-study