Discover the Top 4 Advantages of Building Muscle Mass

When evaluating how effective your fitness routine is, stepping on the scale might not be the most accurate measure. That’s because muscle weighs more than fat. So, if you’re losing fat and gaining muscle, you might look very different, but the scale might not reflect that change. This isn’t a problem though, because building muscle has some compelling advantages.

**Increased Strength**
Gaining extra muscle weight doesn’t just mean you can impress others with your strength. It also plays a crucial role in fighting the effects of aging. On average, people lose about a quarter of their muscle strength between ages 30 and 70, and another quarter by age 90. Building and maintaining muscle can help you stay active and perform your favorite activities with ease. The younger you start, the easier it is to build muscle, and those workouts can bring lifelong benefits if you maintain them.

**Toned Appearance**
Some people, especially women, worry that gaining muscle will make them look bulky. However, by doing the right exercises, you can actually achieve a more toned and lean look. If you focus on lighter weights and higher repetitions rather than heavy lifting, you can build slim, trim muscles without adding bulk.

**Faster Metabolism**
Muscle mass burns more calories than fat, even when you’re at rest. So, having more muscle helps you burn off extra fat and reveal your toned muscles. If you’ve been on calorie-restricted diets, you might find it refreshing to eat more while you’re building muscle. The key is to consume nutrient-rich foods full of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Shakes and smoothies can help if you’re still struggling to get enough calories to build muscle. This approach allows you to eat generous portions as long as you choose the right foods.

**Improved Bone Strength**
Strength training is also good for your bones. As you age, you lose bone mass more quickly than your body can create new bone. Exercises that strengthen muscles and are weight-bearing can help build bone mass, reduce bone deterioration, and strengthen joints and connective tissues. Keeping your muscles strong can help keep your bones strong too.

So, don’t stress over extra weight if it’s muscle. Those extra pounds bring plenty of benefits, both for your appearance and your health.