Cardio machines like the treadmill and bike are by far the most commonly-used machines in the gym. The go-to for new members due to their ease and simplicity, cardio machines are also a popular choice for any gym member with a weight loss goal, with calorie burn often perceived as the most important metric for shedding pounds. However, new research from a ground-breaking study shows that the most effective way to burn calories may be by lifting weights, rather than cardio alone.
The peer-reviewed study, conducted by Les Mills, was recently published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. The study compared those doing a steady cycle class against those doing a Les Mills BODYPUMP class, a popular barbell workout using light-to-moderate weights and lots of repetition.