Don't Wait to Get Strong

Last week I spoke with someone who proudly told me they'd lost 35 pounds. I congratulated them because that's a tremendous accomplishment. Then they said something I hear all too often: "Now that I've lost the weight, I can finally start lifting weights again." My response was simple: Why wait? Strength training isn't something you earn after losing weight—it's one of the best tools you have to help you lose it in the first place.

 

A quality nutrition program combined with regular strength training and a little cardiovascular exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve your body composition. When you lose weight through dieting alone, a significant portion of that weight can come from muscle. Strength training tells your body to preserve that muscle while encouraging it to burn body fat instead. The more muscle you maintain, the higher your metabolism remains, your daily activities become easier, and you'll simply feel stronger and more energetic throughout the day.

 

If you've been avoiding the gym because you think you need to "get in shape first," let me reassure you: everyone had a first day. The strongest people in the gym started somewhere, and most people are far more focused on their own workout than they are on yours. Don't wait until you've lost the weight to begin building strength. Start now. You'll lose fat more efficiently, preserve the muscle that keeps you healthy and capable, and build habits that last long after the weight is gone.