If you’re working toward a weight loss goal, you may have been told to focus on doing ALL CARDIO ALL THE TIME, but that’s a mistake. Don’t get us wrong, we love a heart-pumping endurance session. But with a nothing-but-cardio routine, you miss out on the metabolism-boosting benefits of strength training. Workouts that focus on building muscle rather than burning calories can lead to serious results, so don’t skip strength day. Keep reading to learn why.

What is metabolism, anyway?

It’s the amount of energy (measured in calories) that we burn throughout the day. You know you burn calories when you take a studio fitness class or go for a run, but your body also burns calories performing basic bodily functions when you’re not actively doing anything, like when you’re watching tv or sleeping. This is called your “resting metabolic rate.” Raising your resting metabolic rate means you’ll burn more calories throughout the day.

How do you raise your resting metabolic rate?

Since muscle burns more calories than fat, the more muscle mass your body has, the higher your resting metabolic rate. That means you burn more calories during those times you’re reading a book or working at your desk. Any kind of strength training will do the trick to help build your muscle mass: from bicep curls in the weight room, to BODYPUMP and Yoga classes.

Workout plans, much like life, are all about balance. So, don’t trade an all-cardio routine for an all-strength routine. Instead, an ideal training plan will include cardio AND strength training. A variety of workouts will also keep you from hitting a plateau or getting bored. Not sure where to begin? Reserve your spot for a BODYPUMP class our M7 series. Our coaches are here to help you get comfortable so you can get results.