Marvin N. Kaplan, DMD in Cincinnati, Ohio

You can lose weight without traditional cardio—experts agree that strength training, paired with a calorie deficit, can effectively reduce body fat while preserving or building muscle. Lifting weights helps maintain resting metabolism, improves insulin sensitivity, supports bone and joint health, and may be easier to stick with for people who dislike or can’t tolerate high-impact exercise. Practical takeaways include aiming for 2–3 full-body strength sessions per week, prioritizing protein (about 1.2–1.6 g/kg/day), and staying active through daily movement (like steps) to boost overall calorie burn. Cardio remains valuable for heart and lung health, but it isn’t required for fat loss. If you have chronic conditions, injuries, or are new to exercise, consult a healthcare professional or certified trainer to tailor a safe, effective plan.