Why It’s Important to Lift and Not Just Do Cardio

I always thought the best thing to do to lose weight fast was to do a ton of cardio. We're talking hours upon hours on the stair climber, running, walking, just the works. Wrong. Contrary to popular belief, you will actually burn more fat by lifting weights then you will an hour on the treadmill, according to Active. Keep reading.

You don't need to have the goal of having huge muscles and ripped thighs to pick up a dumbbell, I promise. Not only will you boost your metabolism, you'll become stronger, burn more calories and fat, and look good in those new shorts you just bought...and just in time for summer ;)

"When you lift weights, you start to fear fewer and fewer things," Taylor Selig said, trainer and Assistant Manager of Ridge Fitness in Missoula.

The Huffington Post reported that lifting can also improve your balance, increase bone density, get better sleep, and help your heart.

"Contrary to what non-training people think, a great female butt isn't formed by some lucky random distribution of fat, but muscle," Taylor said. "There are no mental problems that iron can't help fix."

Another great part of weight lifting? You don't even have to go to the gym. I understand the fact that going to the gym can get monotonous and super annoying after a while, especially when it's BEAUTIFUL outside like it's supposed to be this weekend. Try body weight workouts, or grab a can of beans from your cupboard at home. It's that easy.

"All of us want to feel strong, determined, and confident in everything we do: from fitting into jeans, to moving heavy furniture, to playing with kids, to dealing with a stressful career," bodybuilder and fitness writer Kellie Davis said.  "Resistance training can benefit in all aspects of your life. Put it in your fitness plan and feel stronger, healthier, and more confident!"

Do you have a favorite workout? Share it with me below!