I started weight training in Oct. 2013 and absolutely love it. The more muscle I add, the faster I burn fat. Plus the toning and shaping is awesome too!

Conventional wisdom favors cardio workouts over strength training to lose fat. But the truth is much more complex. With weight training, you not only drop clothing sizes quicker, but you burn extra calories thanks to an increase in your Basal Metabolic Rate with that added muscle.

If you are thinking of starting weight training, Muscle & Fitness features a 4-week guide by the country’s top strength coach, Mark Rippetoe. Coach Rippetoe’s book, Starting Strength: Basic Barbell Training, is the bible for coaches and fitness consumers alike.

I love the book, but it’s very detailed and isn’t a quick read. Part of me wishes I had this 4-week guide when I started lifting weights. It’s pretty simple to follow and features videos explaining proper form.