Weightlifters Burn More Calories During Balance Of The Day

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - It is a fascinating concept but people who lift weights to stay in condition actually burn calories when they're just sitting around.

Even in people who don't lift weights, we burn calories simply by breathing. But people who lift weights, who are in good condition, can actually burn more because their metabolism increases.

Calories are a way to measure energy that our body uses to do basic chores such as breathing, circulating blood, and powering the nervous system. All of these things burn calories.

When it comes to weight gain and weight loss calories in and calories out determine whether you gain or lose weight. Try to control the amount you eat and get exercise on a regular basis. The exercise burns calories. It also builds muscle and helps burn calories the rest of the day.