The best type of exercise for faster fat loss is cardio. Why? Cardio burns more calories per minute than strength training. However, for lasting weight loss, a combination of both cardio and strength training is best, because lifting weights builds lean muscle mass, which not only helps you get stronger, but it also helps you look leaner.
References
Boutcher, S.H. (2011). High-intensity intermittent exercise and fat loss. Journal of Obesity.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Steps for losing weight.
Willis, L.H., et al. (2012). Effects of aerobic and/or resistance training on body mass and fat mass in overweight or obese adults. Journal of Applied Physiology.
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Written by:
Brittany DoohanBrittany Doohan was the Content Director at HealthiNation and is currently the Editorial Director at Medscape. Through her work with Medscape, she won a Silver Telly Award in May 2022 for "Sleepless Nation: A Public Health Epidemic — Episode 2: A Decade Without a Diagnosis." She has worked in health journalism and video production for more than 8 years, and loves the challenge of explaining complex topics in an easy-to-understand and creative way.
Reviewed by:
Brian Clista, MDDr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.
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