A 12-week Skidmore College study found that exercisers who did a high-intensity total-body resistance routine combined with cardio lost more than twice as much body fat – in particular, more than four times as much belly fat – compared with cardio-only exercisers. The resistance-training group also ate a high-protein diet, while the other group followed a traditional, moderate-protein eating plan. Researchers speculate that the extra fat loss may be due to the continued calorie burn (higher metabolism) you get after lifting weights as well as the extra protein. One of our goals at Hilliard Studio Method is to build long lean muscles so that while your body is at rest your calories are still burning away – like a 747 on idle!