When trying to lose weight, cardio is king, right? Not so fast. Cardio is important but resistance training is the secret weapon when you’re trying to shed unwanted pounds. Lifting weights or using resistance bands can strengthen and tone muscles, bring power to your bones and extend calorie burn hours after your workout.

Grab your hand weights (light, medium or heavy) and give this full body dumbbell workout a try.

10-12 reps; 3 sets of each exercise

  • Squat to shoulder press
  • Alternating leg lunges
  • Plank with alternating row
  • Curtsy lunge with bicep curl
  • Burpees (go with a lighter weight, if needed)
  • Push up to side plank (go with lighter weights)
  • Side squat
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