Here’s why:
1. More muscle mass = higher energy expenditure
Muscles are metabolically active, meaning they burn energy — even when you're not moving. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn, 24/7.
2. Afterburn effect (EPOC)
After an intense strength workout, your body continues to burn energy to recover. This is called the afterburn effect (EPOC: Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption).
In other words: you keep burning calories for hours after your workout.
3. Fat loss without muscle loss
Cardio alone can sometimes lead to muscle loss, which slows down your metabolism. Strength training helps you lose fat while preserving — or even increasing — muscle mass.
4. A more toned body, without the “skinny fat” look
Strength training doesn’t just reduce weight; it shapes and tones your body. You'll look fitter and more defined, even if the number on the scale doesn’t change drastically.
5. Combining with cardio = best results
The most effective approach? A mix of strength training + moderate cardio + healthy nutrition. This way, you burn fat, maintain muscle, and achieve sustainable results.