How to lose weight with strength training and is that possible?
Yes, it is possible to lose weight with strength training. Although cardiovascular exercises such as running and cycling are often associated with weight loss, strength training can also play an important role in losing weight.
Strength training helps increase muscle mass and increase metabolism. Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat tissue, so the more muscle you have, the more calories your body will burn, even when you're not active.
In addition, strength training can help maintain muscle mass while losing weight. When you lose weight, there is a risk that you not only lose fat, but also muscle mass. By regularly doing strength training, you stimulate the maintenance of muscle mass while losing fat.
However, it is important to note that diet also plays a crucial role in weight loss. To lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit, which means consuming fewer calories than you burn. Combining strength training with a healthy and balanced diet can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Training schedule for strength training and weight loss
An effective strength training regimen for weight loss should focus on increasing metabolism, building muscle mass and burning calories. Here's a sample schedule you can follow:
Note: Before beginning any new exercise program, it is always advisable to consult a physician or qualified fitness professional to ensure that the program is appropriate for your individual needs and any limitations.
Day 1: Full-body strength training
- Squats: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Lunges: 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg
- Dumbbell chest press: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Lat pulldowns: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Shoulder press: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Russian twists: 3 sets of 15-20 reps
Day 2: Rest
Day 3: Lower body strength training
- Deadlifts: 3 sets of 8-10 reps
- Bulgarian split squats: 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg
- Leg press: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Hamstring curls: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Calf raises: 3 sets of 12-15 reps
Day 4: Rest
Day 5: Upper body strength training
- Bench press: 3 sets of 8-10 reps
- Bent-over rows: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Dumbbell shoulder press: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Pull-ups or lat pulldowns: 3 sets of 8-10 reps
- Bicep curls: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
- Tricep dips: 3 sets of 10-12 reps
Day 6 and 7: Rest
In addition to strength training, it's also important to incorporate cardiovascular exercises into your workout routine to burn extra calories. For example, on days when you don't strength train, you can do 20-30 minutes of moderate to intense cardio, such as jogging, cycling, swimming or using a stationary bike.
Remember that in addition to your exercise regime, a healthy and balanced diet is essential for weight loss. Create a calorie deficit through a healthy diet and pay attention to your total calorie intake. Please note that this is just a sample schedule.
Losing weight tips and tricks in general
Here are some tips and tricks that can help you lose weight:
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Set realistic goals: Make sure you set goals that are achievable and that you can maintain in the long term. A healthy weight loss is about 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week.
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Create a healthy and balanced diet: Make sure your diet is rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats. Avoid or limit processed foods, sugary drinks and snacks high in added sugar.
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Eat slowly and listen to your body: Take your time to eat your meals and chew well. This helps you feel full faster and prevent overeating.
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Check portion size: Pay attention to your portion sizes and preferably use smaller plates and bowls. This can help you consume fewer calories without feeling like you're eating too little.
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Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Sometimes thirst can be confused with hunger, so make sure you drink enough water to stay hydrated.
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Limit calories from drinks: Sodas, fruit juices, alcoholic drinks and even some coffee drinks can contain a lot of hidden calories. Instead, opt for water, unsweetened tea or coffee, and limit alcoholic drinks.
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Get enough sleep: A good night's sleep is important for healthy weight loss. Lack of sleep can increase your hunger and appetite, which can lead to overeating.
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Stay active: In addition to strength training, you can also incorporate cardiovascular exercises such as walking, jogging, cycling or swimming into your routine. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense activity per week.
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Keep a food diary: Keeping track of what you eat and drink can make you aware of your eating habits and help identify any problematic areas.
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Be patient and kind to yourself: Weight loss is a process and it can take time. Be patient and don't be too hard on yourself if you make a mistake. Every day is a new opportunity to make healthy choices.
Buy and use nutritional supplements for weight loss
While nutritional supplements can help support weight loss, it is important to note that they are not miracle cures and that a healthy diet and exercise remain the foundation for successful weight loss.
Protein shakes : with these you can replace meals or use them as a snack to save a lot of calories.
Diet shakes : these allow you to replace meals to save calories.
Omega 3 : Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil, can promote health and reduce inflammation. While not directly related to weight loss, they can play a role in supporting overall health and wellness during weight loss.
Diet support : the diet support contributes to suppressing your feeling of hunger and can provide more energy, which is useful when losing weight.
Multivitamin : useful for extra vitamins and minerals during weight loss.
Can you lose weight without exercising?
Yes, it is possible to lose weight without intensive exercise. Weight loss essentially comes down to creating a calorie deficit, where you consume fewer calories than you burn. While exercise is important for a healthy lifestyle and can support weight loss, diet is the primary factor when it comes to weight loss.
Here are some strategies to lose weight without intense exercise:
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Calorie restriction: Reducing your daily calorie intake can lead to weight loss. Focus on eating nutritious, fiber-rich foods that keep you feeling full and limit your consumption of foods high in added sugars and refined carbohydrates.
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Portion control: Pay attention to your portion sizes and try to eat more slowly to better listen to your satiety levels. Use smaller plates and bowls to help yourself eat less.
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Eat a balanced diet: Eat a balanced diet with a good mix of lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, vegetables and fruits. These foods provide essential nutrients and help you feel full.
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Avoid liquid calories: Limit consumption of sugary drinks such as soda, fruit juices and sweetened coffee drinks, as they often contain a lot of calories without providing a feeling of fullness.
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Increase daily activity: Although you don't have to exercise intensively, you can increase your daily activity. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk more often, get up and exercise regularly if you have a sedentary job. This extra exercise can help you burn calories and boost your metabolism.
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Get enough sleep: A good night's sleep is important for healthy weight loss. Lack of sleep can lead to changes in hormone balance that affect appetite and feelings of hunger.
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Stress management: Stress can affect eating behavior and cause weight gain. Look for ways to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, walking, or other relaxation techniques.
Although exercise is not necessary for weight loss, it can help maintain muscle mass, improve overall health and increase calorie consumption. Combining a healthy diet with regular exercise is often the most effective approach to weight loss and overall fitness.