What Percentage Of Your Body Weight Is Muscle

It is almost impossible to answer the question what percentage of your body weight is muscle as it depends on each individual. In a healthy woman, whose body is in correct proportions, muscle and other lean tissues account for between 10% and 15% of her total body weight.

Some people refuse to exercise as they believe that muscle weighs more than fat. But muscle burns more calories so people who try to lose weight by dieting alone are generally less successful than those that follow a combination of a healthy diet and exercise.

Walking is a great weight loss exercise. It burns fat, as it is aerobic, but as it is also weight bearing, it helps to build lean tissue and maintain healthy bones. A brisk walk is a low impact exercise which means you are at less risk of injury and probably best of all; it doesn’t cost a penny.

A leisurely stroll won’t burn the pounds though. You need to go for a brisk walk building up a slight sweat as you exercise.

If you start sweating excessively you are putting your body under too much pressure so slow down. It would also be a good idea to speak to your medical practitioner to ensure there are no underlying health problems that need to be taken into consideration.

Ask your family to buy you a pedometer so you can measure your steps. It is suggested that we all walk at least 10,000 steps a day, about five miles, but those that need to lose weight may wish to walk more.

People think that in order for exercise to work, you need to be down in the gym working out like Mr T. This is not the case at all. In fact gentle exercise works best to start with, as you are more likely to keep the new fitness regime going. You won’t see immediate results and the sooner you realise that you are in this for the long haul the easier your weight loss program will be.

you know it doesn’t really matter what percentage of your body weight is muscle, if overall you are in great shape, weigh the correct amount for your age, height, build and get sufficient exercise. What matters more is that you are happy and enjoying your life.

Muscle doesn’t turn into fat when you stop exercising. Some people believe this myth but it is completely false. Muscle cannot turn into fat and vice versa. What tends to happen is that you can lose muscle tone and definition; if you cease to work out. You may also put on weight if you do not reduce your calorie intake as you burn more calories when exercising.  So if an illness or injury prevents you from being as active as usual, just cut your calorie intake slightly and you should be fine.

So stop wondering what percentage of your body weight is muscle and get out there and find ways of improving your overall lifestyle.