New Research Sparks Debate on Best Exercise for Weight Loss and Diabetes Management
A recent study has shed new light on the most effective way to combat obesity and type 2 diabetes - by lifting weights. Contrary to popular advice that running is a more beneficial exercise, scientists have found that weightlifting may be the better choice.
Researchers at Virginia Tech conducted an experiment on mice, feeding three groups high-fat diets to induce obesity. The first group was required to lift weighted lids to access their food, simulating strength training. The second group had access to a running wheel to mimic endurance training. A third group received no exercise.
After eight weeks, the results showed that both running and weightlifting reduced fat in the abdomen and under the skin, as well as improved blood glucose maintenance with better insulin signaling in skeletal muscle. However, weightlifting outperformed running in these health benefits.
According to Zhen Yan, the lead researcher on the study, "Our data showed that both running and weightlifting reduce fat in the abdomen and under the skin and improve blood glucose maintenance with better insulin signaling in skeletal muscle." He emphasized that this doesn't mean people should abandon aerobic exercise entirely.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, plus two days of muscle-strengthening activities each week. Weightlifting can help preserve and enhance muscle mass, which naturally diminishes with age, increasing bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
While running provides cardiovascular benefits, allowing muscles to perform tasks at higher levels for longer periods, weightlifting offers more comprehensive health benefits. The study highlights the importance of incorporating both endurance and resistance exercise into a fitness routine for optimal results.
Yan stressed that "the take-home message is that you should do both endurance and resistance exercise, if possible, to get the most health benefit."
A recent study has shed new light on the most effective way to combat obesity and type 2 diabetes - by lifting weights. Contrary to popular advice that running is a more beneficial exercise, scientists have found that weightlifting may be the better choice.
Researchers at Virginia Tech conducted an experiment on mice, feeding three groups high-fat diets to induce obesity. The first group was required to lift weighted lids to access their food, simulating strength training. The second group had access to a running wheel to mimic endurance training. A third group received no exercise.
After eight weeks, the results showed that both running and weightlifting reduced fat in the abdomen and under the skin, as well as improved blood glucose maintenance with better insulin signaling in skeletal muscle. However, weightlifting outperformed running in these health benefits.
According to Zhen Yan, the lead researcher on the study, "Our data showed that both running and weightlifting reduce fat in the abdomen and under the skin and improve blood glucose maintenance with better insulin signaling in skeletal muscle." He emphasized that this doesn't mean people should abandon aerobic exercise entirely.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, plus two days of muscle-strengthening activities each week. Weightlifting can help preserve and enhance muscle mass, which naturally diminishes with age, increasing bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
While running provides cardiovascular benefits, allowing muscles to perform tasks at higher levels for longer periods, weightlifting offers more comprehensive health benefits. The study highlights the importance of incorporating both endurance and resistance exercise into a fitness routine for optimal results.
Yan stressed that "the take-home message is that you should do both endurance and resistance exercise, if possible, to get the most health benefit."
. I mean, we all know how hard it is to stick to a workout routine, but it's awesome to have some science backing up our decision to hit the weights instead of just running on the treadmill 
. And honestly, I think it's about time we gave weightlifting more credit - those of us who lift regularly already know how amazing it can be for our overall health 
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. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, plus two days of muscle-strengthening activities each week - I think that's a solid plan to stay healthy and happy 
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. Let's get creative and find ways to make weightlifting more fun and accessible! 
just read about this study on weightlifting vs running for weight loss & diabetes management... apparently lifting weights is better 
researchers say it reduces fat & improves blood glucose levels more than running! 
i mean, who knew? 
but honestly, the lead researcher says u should do both tho, like, endurace exercise too 
... makes sense to me. also, weightlifting helps w/ bone density & osteoporosis 
It's all about balance, right? You need some cardio to get that heart rate up and burn those calories, but then you gotta strengthen those muscles to actually build endurance. And don't even get me started on the importance of proper formatting in a workout routine – you gotta have a clear plan if you want to see results 
. I mean, who wants to spend hours running when they could be lifting weights and building muscle? 
Weightlifting is more inclusive and accessible, especially if you're short on space or time. Plus, it's not just about burning fat, it's about building muscle mass which actually helps with bone density and osteoporosis prevention! 
. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's great for your heart and all that jazz, but have you ever tried trying to run with a heavy backpack on? Not fun 
. I think this study is a game changer and I'll definitely be incorporating more weightlifting into my routine 
. We can do both! It's about finding a balance that works for you. And let's be real, weightlifting isn't just for building muscle - it's also great for bone density and all that jazz 
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I mean, I know cardio's got its benefits, but if weightlifting can do both cardio and strength training at the same time, why not?!
It's time we ditched those treadmill blues and got lifting 
I mean, who doesn't love a good excuse to hit the gym? 
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. I'm all for finding effective ways to manage diabetes and weight loss, but let's not get carried away here 
. Can we please just have a balanced approach instead of constantly debating which exercise is "better" 
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I'm all about that strength training life! Lifting weights is like a superpower, it's not just about burning fat, it's about building muscle and bone density too. And let's be real, who doesn't want to be able to crush their day without getting winded after 5 minutes? 
I've been doing HIIT workouts for years and they're like the best thing since sliced bread! But seriously, weightlifting outperformed running in this study, so maybe it's time we rethink our fitness routine. Maybe it's not just about cardio, but about functional strength too? 
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