How does strength training impact metabolism?

Strength training significantly impacts metabolism primarily through its ability to increase muscle mass, which in turn raises the resting metabolic rate. When an individual engages in strength training, the muscle fibers experience micro-tears, which then heal and adapt to become bigger and stronger. This process requires energy and leads to an increase in muscle mass.

Muscle tissue, even at rest, requires more energy to maintain compared to fat tissue. As a result, individuals with greater muscle mass will burn more calories throughout the day, even when they are not actively exercising. This increase in resting metabolic rate is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy weight and can contribute to effective weight management and reduced body fat over time.

Other options do not capture the specific effects of strength training on metabolism. While decreased fat storage may occur as a secondary result of increased muscle mass, it is not the primary mechanism of how strength training affects metabolism. Similarly, improvements in cardiovascular endurance are more closely associated with aerobic exercise rather than strength training. Lastly, suggesting that strength training has no significant effect on metabolism overlooks the critical relationship between muscle mass and energy expenditure. Thus, the primary significance of strength training on metabolism lies in its capacity to enhance muscle mass, which directly contributes to a higher resting metabolic rate.