Build muscle, burn fat

Published 8:02 am Saturday, June 21, 2003

By Staff
Did you know that building muscle could turn your body into a fat burning machine? You don't have to bulk up like the incredible hulk to reap the benefits of strength training. In fact, fitness experts say that you will lose weight and get in shape faster by adding strength training to your cardiovascular routine.
Strength training at home is more convenient and affordable than ever before. The best home strength training systems offer many different strength exercises and can take up very little space. It is a healthy investment – and a gift the entire family can benefit from.
There are many benefits of strength training. Here are some facts that you need to know:
According the American Council on Exercise (ACE), most adults lose about one half pound of muscle per year after the age of 20. This is largely due to decreased activity. Muscle tissue is partly responsible for the number of calories burned at rest (the basal metabolic rate or BMR). As muscle mass increases, BMR increases, making it easier to maintain a healthy body weight. The American College of Sports Medicine (ASCM) recommends the following strength training guidelines:
Knowing what piece of equipment to purchase for your home can be a daunting task, but by shopping around, you can find a great machine that won't break your budget.