6 Reasons Women Should Lift Weights Instead of Doing Cardio for Weight Loss
Do you need a little weight-lifting motivation? Kassidy Callori is a fitness trainer whose mission is "inspiring others to live a happy, healthy life," according to her Instagram bio. She regularly shares tips, tricks, and workouts to help keep her followers in shape. In a recent "I wish more women knew this" post, she reveals why women should lift weights over prioritizing cardio. "Ladies, it's time to shift the narrative! While cardio has its place in fitness, weightlifting offers countless benefits that often get overlooked, especially for women. Here's why," she writes.
Strength Training Is a Metabolism Booster
Building muscle will help your metabolism speed up. "Boosted Metabolism" is her first reason why weight lifting is more important than cardio. "Lifting weights builds muscle, which increases your resting metabolic rate. This means you'll burn calories even when you're not working out!" Kassidy says in her post.
Strength Training Will Strengthen Your Bones
Another reason why it is important to strength training, especially if you are older? It helps strengthen your bones. "Resistance training improves bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis—a common concern for women as they age," she writes.
Strength Training Will Help You Look Toned, Not Bulky
Strength training will also help you achieve the sculpted look of "toned, not bulky," she writes. "Contrary to myths, weightlifting won't make you bulky. Instead, it creates lean, sculpted muscle for a toned, feminine physique."
Strength Training Will Empower You
Another pro of strength training? "Empowerment," she writes. "There's something so rewarding about lifting heavy. It's a physical AND mental confidence boost!"
Strength Training Promotes Longevity
It also promotes longevity, she writes. "Strength training improves functional fitness, helping you stay active and independent later in life," she says.
Strength Training Helps With Stress
The final benefits she mentions? Stress relief. "Strength training reduces cortisol levels, helping you manage stress and improve mood—bonus points for mental health," she writes.
How Much Cardio Should You Do?
"The number one question I asked is how much cardio do I do? I will add 20 to 30 minutes on the bike if I am doing an upper body workout, or if I have time, I might finish a workout with 15 minutes on the stair stepper, but this is not my priority. Lifting weights is," she says.
Here's What the Mayo Clinic Says About Strength Training
According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:
- Develop strong bones
- Manage your weight
- Enhance your quality of life
- Manage chronic conditions
- Sharpen your thinking skills
Try One of Her At-Home Workouts
If you want to get a strength training workout in at home, try her "Total Body Burn Workout," shared on her Instagram. "Grab your 17.5 lb dumbbells (or any weight that works for you), and let's get moving! This workout is for ANY fitness level, so no excuses! Do 3-4 rounds for a full-body burn you'll feel tomorrow!" she writes, demonstrating all the moves in her video. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.
