Have you been wanting Carrie Underwood legs for as long as you can remember...but instead have way too many days when you can barely get your jeans all the way on?
I feel ya!
So I've actually been doing 2 leg workouts per week lately and throwing a bit of spinning in there too for extra burn.
A killer leg strength training session can also really torch a ton of calories. In fact, there are a bunch of benefits to getting in multiple legs strengthening workouts in per week!
1. EPOC Boost - Keep Burning Even After You Stop: Picture this – you finish a leg day workout, but the calorie-burning party doesn't end there. Research suggests that intense leg sessions, especially those packed with compound movements like squats and lunges, elevate your post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). Translation? Your body keeps burning calories even after you've crushed that last set. It's like a fitness gift that keeps on giving!
2. Muscles Mean Metabolism: We all know that muscle is a metabolic powerhouse, and leg strength training is the VIP pass to building that lean muscle mass. More muscle means a higher resting metabolic rate – your body burns more calories at rest. So, while you're chilling, those leg gains are doing the work, contributing to a continuous calorie burn.
3. Growth Hormone Magic: Leg workouts aren't just about building brawn; they're also your ticket to the growth hormone party. Research indicates that the intense effort put into leg exercises stimulates the release of growth hormone, which is a fat-burning maestro. Say hello to enhanced fat metabolism and a smoother journey on the weight-loss express!
4. Functional Fitness Fun: Leg exercises aren't just about aesthetics; they're about functional movements that engage multiple muscle groups. Think squats, lunges, and deadlifts – they're like a fitness symphony that not only sculpts your legs but also activates stabilizing muscles. It's a holistic workout experience that maximizes calorie burn and boosts overall functional fitness.
5. Caloric Combustion During Your Workout: Ever tried squat jumps or kettlebell swings? These explosive leg movements are a calorie-burning bonanza during your workout. The energy demands for these exercises are high, resulting in more calories burned in a shorter time compared to a steady-state run. It's the perfect blend of intensity and efficiency.
So my friends, the next time you're tempted to skip leg day, think again. Embrace the burn, the sweat, and the glory of a killer leg strength training session. Your metabolism, calorie burn, and overall fitness will thank you! If you don't yet have a strength training routine, let's hop on a call and build one for you! Snag a time on my calendar here! Here's to crushing those leg day goals and unleashing the calorie-burning beast within! 🏋️♂️ 💥 #LegDay #StrengthTraining #FitnessJourney #JillOrtizFitnessBlog
