Achieved his dream of skiing with his son, not just because he lost weight, but because he was STRONG enough to do it!
There is great celebration at the scale when a patient sees weight loss here at the Weight Center.
The celebration can only start when we understand WHAT was lost!
If a patient has been doing strength training – Whoo hoo! Let the celebrating begin! However…
About 30% of weight lost without strength training is muscle.
Muscle = metabolism!
Muscle = strength, balance, bone strength.
Muscle = being able to do the things you want to do at your goal weight.
The myths that muscle weighs more than fat, that we will get big bulky muscles, that cardio is best for weight loss makes many avoid strength training when trying to lose weight.
Cardiovascular exercise such as walking, running, cycling, swimming -does not prevent this loss of muscle with weight loss.
See this blog on strength training if you are not doing strength training and have had weight loss surgery.
Since the weight loss is rapid after weight loss surgery, muscle loss is more likely.
For true success after weight loss surgery – regular strength training is key.
If you have questions, please contact me.
Keep Moving, Be Well
Janet
Please share these posts with anyone you know interested in losing weight with or without weight loss surgery. Click here to learn more about the UMass Memorial Weight Center
These weekly blogs are general guidelines. These guidelines apply to patients who are cleared by a physician for the type of exercise described. Please contact your physician with any concerns or questions. Always report any symptoms associated with exercise, such as pain, irregular heartbeats, and dizziness or fainting, to your physician.
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