Lighter Weight vs. Heavier Weight

We get this question a lot: “Should I lift heavy or focus on doing more reps?” This isn’t a simple question to answer because there really isn’t a right or wrong way to do it; it just depends on your goals! If you’re someone who is just looking to lose fat then you will have to lift differently than someone looking to gain muscle.

Lighter Weight

Let’s be clear- using lighter weight does not mean you go for the 5 pound dumbbells every single time you’re at the gym. The point of using lighter weight with increased reps is to help increase your muscular endurance. In short, building up your muscle endurance will then allow you to workout/lift for longer without exerting as much energy. Lifting lighter weight with higher reps can also help you burn more fat and tone your muscles!

Heavier Weight

Heavier weight could mean 30 pounds or it could mean 200 pounds...so don’t think we mean you HAVE to be lifting an insane amount when we say ‘heavy weight’. Your heavy will look completely different to the person next to you! The benefits of lifting heavier are to build more muscle but you have to remember to be careful while doing this. Yeah you might want to go straight for the heavy weights at first but you have to still focus on the basics. You can’t compromise your form just to lift heavier. If you’re doing the exercise wrong you risk injuries. Be sure that you’re trying a comfortable weight and really nailing down the form before you try to lift too heavy. Form > Weight every time!

It’s important to remember that every body is different and every person’s fitness journey is going to look different. It’s also important that you’re switching up your routine from time to time. If you’re doing the same exercises all the time, your body will go into a plateau and won’t continue to see that progress. Your body likes to be challenged so continue to switch it up and challenge your body!

If you need help figuring out how to lose those extra pounds or just get lost in the gym, Disturbing Comfort can help you! We can create a customized plan built for your body type and lifestyle. We want to help you succeed!

-The Disturbing Comfort Family