Are you struggling to lose weight despite working out and eating healthy? A personal trainer has revealed a sneaky reason why this might be happening. On September 13, 2024, Chloe Thomas, a UK fitness expert, explained that metabolic adaptation could be slowing your progress. This article explores why focusing on strength training can lead to better weight loss results.
Key takeaways:
- Weight loss requires a calorie deficit.
- Metabolic adaptation can hinder weight loss.
- Strength training is essential for effective weight loss.
- Cardio should complement, not replace, strength training.
Understanding Metabolic Adaptation and Weight Loss Challenges
Metabolic adaptation occurs when your metabolism slows down due to reduced caloric intake. This can make it difficult to lose or maintain weight. Chloe Thomas emphasizes that everyone has a “set point,” the weight range where your body feels most stable. When you stray too far from this point, your body activates mechanisms to defend this weight, making weight loss challenging.
Why Strength Training is Key for Effective Weight Loss
Many people prioritize cardio in their fitness routines, but experts say strength training should be the focus. River Hardy, a fitness coach, notes that while cardio burns calories, strength training builds muscle. Muscle requires more energy to maintain, which can lead to greater calorie burn over time.
The Benefits of Strength Training for Weight Loss
Strength training offers numerous advantages for those looking to lose weight:
- Increases muscle mass, boosting metabolism.
- Improves body composition by reducing fat.
- Enhances blood sugar control.
- Reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
To start, fitness coach Claudette Sariya recommends mastering basic movements like squats, hinges, pushes, pulls, lunges, and carries. Once you’re comfortable with these, you can progress to more complex exercises.
