She is that girl who is on the same elliptical every time you are doing cardio, but never lifts a weight. Yes, she is fairly thin but is she healthy? Is she strong? The fact is, if she would pick up some weights just 3 times a week for 45-50 minutes her body would dramatically change.

Building a little muscle raises you body’s BMR (basal metabolic rate). In other words, your body burns more calories at rest. Muscle needs energy to work, and that means more energy is needed. Every extra pound of muscle you build on your body burns an extra 30 calories a day. So in essence, you will burn more calories while you sleep! I can’t imagine anyone not liking the sound of that.

I wouldn’t be surprised if that same girl has over 30% bodyfat. Just to put that in perspective, a 30 yr old female at 32% is considered overfat. Many of the models you see in fashion magazines have over 30% bodyfat! Thin does not necessarily mean fit.

The solution? At least three times a week, substitute 45 minutes of weights instead of cardio. Both are equally important. If you are not sure how to use the weights, of course my advice is to get a personal trainer