Have you ever wondered how many calories are burned from lifting weights? Many people believe that cardio is the only way to burn calories, but weightlifting can also be an effective way to shed those extra pounds. In this article, we will explore the benefits of lifting weights and how it can contribute to your overall calorie burn.
1. Increased Muscle Mass
When you lift weights, you are not only burning calories during your workout, but you are also increasing your muscle mass. This is important because the more muscle you have, the more calories your body will burn at rest. In fact, for every pound of muscle you gain, your body will burn an additional 50-70 calories per day.
Furthermore, weightlifting can lead to an increase in your basal metabolic rate (BMR), which means that your body will burn more calories even when you are not exercising.
2. Intensity and Duration
The number of calories burned from lifting weights can vary depending on the intensity and duration of your workout. Generally, the more intense and longer your weightlifting session, the more calories you will burn. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and circuit training, for example, can significantly increase your calorie burn compared to traditional weightlifting.
3. Afterburn Effect
Weightlifting can also result in the “afterburn effect,” also known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). This means that your body continues to burn calories at an elevated rate even after you have finished your workout. The afterburn effect can last for several hours, leading to additional calorie burn.
4. Metabolic Rate
Studies have shown that weightlifting can increase your metabolic rate for up to 24 hours after a workout. This means that your body will continue to burn calories at a higher rate, contributing to overall calorie burn throughout the day.
5. Body Composition
Weightlifting can also have a positive impact on your body composition. As you build muscle and lose fat, your overall body composition improves. This can lead to a higher calorie burn, as muscle tissue requires more energy to maintain compared to fat tissue.
6. Consistency and Progression
Consistency and progression are key when it comes to burning calories from lifting weights. The more consistent you are with your weightlifting routine, and the more you progress in terms of weight and intensity, the more calories you will burn over time. It’s important to continually challenge your muscles in order to see continued progress in calorie burn.
In conclusion, lifting weights can be an effective way to burn calories and improve your overall body composition. By increasing muscle mass, utilizing high-intensity training, and taking advantage of the afterburn effect, you can maximize your calorie burn from weightlifting. Remember to stay consistent and progressively challenge yourself to see the best results in calorie burn and overall fitness.