Newsflash! Strength Training Benefits Your Metabolism.

Christopher's Commentary:

As far as I knew, prior studies -- as well as reality-based evidence from the trenches -- have repeatedly shown that weight training reduces fat and improves metabolism. . . especially in comparison to endurance training (You mean individuals outside of marathoners still do that?!?!?).  I'm happy to see that the research has advanced enough to move on from humans to mice. . .

'Weight Training' Reduces Fat And Improves Metabolism In Mice

ScienceDaily (Feb. 7, 2008) — Researchers from the Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) have demonstrated that in mice, the use of barbells may be as important to losing weight and improving health as the use of running shoes. The discovery builds upon the fact that skeletal muscle consists of two types of fibers. Endurance training such as running increases the amount of type I muscle fibers, while resistance training such as weightlifting increases type II muscle fibers. Using a mouse genetic model, BUSM researchers demonstrated that an increase in type II muscle mass can reduce body fat which in turn reduces overall body mass and improves metabolic parameters such as insulin resistance. These studies indicate that weight bearing exercise, in addition to endurance training, may benefit overweight people.  Read more. . .