According to a recent study conducted at Edith Cowan University’s Exercise Medicine Research Institute, resistance training in conjunction with a calorie-reduced diet can lead to significant positive results in weight loss, fat mass reduction, and muscle mass increase.
The study, titled ‘Resistance training effectiveness on body composition and body weight outcomes in individuals with overweight and obesity across the lifespan: A systematic review and meta-analysis,’ highlights the benefits of resistance training for individuals with obesity who may not feel comfortable with traditional aerobic exercise. Lead researcher and PhD student Pedro Lopez explains that “resistance training also catered to other important factors when looking to lose weight, such as building or preserving muscle mass”.
The study further emphasizes the importance of calorie reduction regardless of the type of exercise chosen. Mr Lopez advises that “if you want to lose weight, you have to reduce your calorie intake”. The study does not compare the effectiveness of aerobic and resistance exercise; instead, it highlights that resistance training can be just as effective in achieving meaningful effects on body composition and weight loss [1].
Mr Lopez further highlights the unique benefits of resistance training, such as avoiding loss of muscle mass while lowering the number of calories consumed. Overall, the study provides evidence that resistance training is a viable option for individuals with obesity who may struggle with traditional aerobic exercise and can help them achieve their weight loss goals. The study was published in Obesity Reviews.
Conclusion
if you are looking to lose weight, the study recommends reducing your calorie intake regardless of which type of exercise you choose. Resistance training, in conjunction with a calorie-reduced diet, can lead to significant positive results in weight loss, fat mass reduction, and muscle mass increase. This type of exercise also has unique benefits such as avoiding loss of muscle mass while reducing calories and can be a good option for individuals who struggle with traditional aerobic exercise.