You might think that losing weight increases your metabolic rate, but a study published in the International Journal of Obesity suggests the opposite is true. Researchers found that a decrease in metabolic rate was proportional with weight loss, which helps explain weight regain in approximately 95% of people who are initially successful at dropping some pounds. Here’s the good news: combining exercise with a low-fat diet helps preserve muscle mass which prevents this decrease in metabolic rate.

True Strength Moment: Your metabolic rate helps determine the number of calories you burn. When it slows down, you aren’t able to burn up as many calories which makes it more difficult to keep your weight from creeping back up. Exercise seems to be the answer, building muscle mass to increase your metabolism while also enhancing your strength and physical appearance.