Stuck in a Weight Loss Plateau? Boost Your Metabolism With Strength Training!

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Have you been told that cardio is the best way to lose weight?  If so, fire that trainer or coach immediately.  Yes, cardio is important for overall health and shouldn’t be neglected, but THIS is by far the best way to lose weight, speed up your metabolism and burn fat up to 48 hours after a workout.   It’s a shame that most gyms have an almost unlimited supply of treadmills and ellipticals but only about 5 weight benches and limited free weights.  I hope that ratio changes someday.  Until then, we work with what we have!

Ready to get started?  Check out How To Start Weight Training For Females

Many of you probably have access to a set of dumbbells either at home or at the gym, but if you’re anything like me, you’re probably bored with doing bicep curls, tricep kickbacks and arm circles and all the other mainstream exercises.  The video above illustrates a new movement you can try called the hang clean.  You don’t have to be a bodybuilder or Crossfit junkie to appreciate or benefit from moves like this.  Stay with me on this one!

As an Exercise Science major, I love that the hang clean is a functional movement that works both your upper and lower body.   It is similar to the burpee in that it engages multiple areas of your body at once; more bang for your buck is always a plus!

This movement can be done at home or at the gym.  I use these adjustable weights to train at home on days I can’t make it to the gym.  I like that they allow me to gradually progress to a heavier weight without having to buy multiple dumbbells.

Do you do any resistance training currently?   Are you a cardio warrior that wants to start seeing some better results?  I definitely tried running for quite a while and ended up so frustrated as it wore down my body and kept me in a weight loss plateau.

I’m curious – what has been the most effective activity you have found to lose weight? Let me know in the comments.

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Thanks for reading!

Emily

**Be sure to consult your physician before starting any new exercise regimen**