31 Mar Weight Loss vs. Fat Loss
For most people, getting fit is synonymous with the term “weight loss”. This is a misleading and incorrect approach to fitness. When you lose weight, you not only lose fat but also lose other important body tissue including valuable muscle mass. The term “fat loss”, however, emphasizes the loss of fat specifically. Fat tissue is harmful for your body, versus beneficial muscle tissue which contributes heavily and positively towards your health and fitness levels.
Body Fat Percentage is an important indicator when considering fat loss. Women should aim for a body fat percentage between 21- 24% and men between 14-17%. Ideal body fat percentage for men and women varies due to reproductive reasons, with additional body fat for women concentrated on the breasts and pelvic region.
Focusing on losing fat over weight implies that you focus on gaining and strengthening muscle, rather than depleting it through crash diets and heavy focus on cardio exercise. A fitness program that prioritizes strength and resistance training e.g. weight lifting, builds muscle and sheds fat. This improvement in body composition, or improved proportion of muscle to fat, is what sets you up towards long-term, sustainable health and fitness.
Muscle gain raises your resting calorie burn and amps up your metabolism, meaning once you halt your fitness routine, your weight won’t come back with a vengeance. This is because by building muscle, you’ve permanently increased your body’s ability to burn more calories in a resting state throughout the day.