Weightlifting, the key to weight loss?

Lifting weights is essential.  If you are overweight and want to really begin to lose weight, you need to lift weights.  It's not about getting bulked up like a professional weightlifter.  There are more weight loss benefits to lifting weights than running.

Weight lifting helps you build muscle.   This extra muscle uses calories and helps you burn more fat.  This is the way you increase your basal metabolic rate.  Your basal metabolic rate is the amount of calories your body burns just for you to stay alive.  Regardless of whether you sit on the couch, or if you are sleeping, you burn calories.  The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn.

Lifting also gives you a metabolic boost for a longer period.  After you workout, your body will burn an increased number of calories for up to 48 hours afterword.  This will also allow you to lose weight.

A great book to begin with is Bigger, Leaner, Stronger.  This book goes into nutrition and weightlifting.  This will give you everything you need to do to begin lifting weights.  If you prefer the here is the kindle version.  This book is really written for men.  The author does have a version for women called Thinner, Leaner, Stronger (Kindle).

The other place that helps is Bodybuilding.com.  This is a great place with lots of free information.  The ONLY downside is that if you are not familiar with working out, the amount information can be a little overwhelming.  This is why I recommend you start with the books above and then incorporate other workouts as you go.

Do yourself a favor and begin a weight routine today!