This "Fitness Expert" Just Banned Strength Training During Fat Loss - Do not follow their advice at all costs.
- Jordan Devanney

- Feb 26
- 4 min read
Right, I'm absolutely fuming. Some muppet on social media - calling himself a fitness "expert" - just told his followers that anyone over 25% body fat should completely avoid strength training.

According to Captain Clueless, you're apparently too fat and insulin resistant to build muscle, so you should just focus on losing weight first. Then - and only then - can you start lifting weights.
This is weapons-grade stupidity.
I need to address this bollocks before more people fall for it and sabotage their own progress.
The "Expert" Who Clearly Failed Biology
Here's what this genius actually posted:
"People come to me thinking they need to build muscle when they are at 25% body fat. No, we need to strip the fat off your body first. You're insulin resistant anyway, which means you would probably just get fat and not build much muscle right now anyway."
Where do I even start with this trainwreck?
First off, mate - insulin resistance doesn't work like that. Second, you're basically telling people to do the one thing that guarantees they'll end up "skinny fat" instead of actually lean and strong.
It's like a masterclass in how to give terrible advice with absolute confidence.
Why This Advice Will Ruin Your Progress
Problem 1: You'll Lose Muscle, Not Just Fat
When you diet without lifting weights, roughly 25-30% of your weight loss comes from muscle. That's not fat loss - that's your body eating itself.
Translation: You'll end up looking like a smaller, softer version of your current self instead of actually getting lean and defined.
Problem 2: Your Metabolism Will Tank
Muscle tissue burns calories even when you're sitting on the sofa watching Netflix. Lose muscle, and your metabolism slows down. This makes it harder to lose fat and easier to regain weight later.
It's like deliberately sabotaging your own engine while trying to win a race.
Problem 3: You're Missing the Best Opportunity
Overweight beginners are in the absolute sweet spot for building muscle while losing fat simultaneously. This "expert" is telling people to completely waste this golden opportunity.
That's like winning the lottery and setting the ticket on fire.
The Science This "Expert" Conveniently Ignores the benefits of Strength Training During Fat Loss
Here's what actually happens when overweight people combine strength training with fat loss:
They Build Muscle AND Lose Fat
Study after study shows that beginners - especially overweight ones - can do both at the same time. It's called body recomposition, and it's bloody brilliant.
One study had overweight blokes gain 2.5 pounds of muscle while losing 10.6 pounds of fat in just 28 days. While eating in a calorie deficit.
Their Insulin Sensitivity IMPROVES
Remember how our "expert" claimed insulin resistance prevents muscle building? Complete nonsense. Lifting weights actually fixes insulin resistance.
Even one strength training session improves insulin sensitivity for up to 48 hours. It's literally one of the best treatments for the condition this muppet is using as an excuse.
They Keep Their Metabolism Higher
People who lift weights while dieting maintain their metabolic rate. People who just diet? Their metabolism slows down significantly.
Guess which group keeps the weight off long-term?
What Actually Works (Despite What Captain Clueless Says)
Lift Heavy Things Regularly
Start with basic movements like squats, deadlifts, presses, and rows. Three times per week is plenty to start. Focus on getting stronger over time.
Your insulin resistance will thank you. Your muscle mass will thank you. Your metabolism will thank you.
Create a Moderate Calorie Deficit
Aim to eat 300-500 calories less than you burn. Don't go mental and try to survive on lettuce and sadness.
Eat Plenty of Protein
Aim for roughly 0.8-1g per pound of body weight. This supports muscle building and keeps you fuller longer.
Be Patient
Body recomposition takes longer than just losing weight on the scales, but the results are infinitely better. You'll end up lean, strong, and metabolically healthy instead of skinny fat.
The Real Reason This "Expert" Is Wrong
Here's the thing - this advice sounds revolutionary because it goes against common sense. And revolutionary advice gets more attention on social media than boring, evidence-based recommendations.
But revolutionary doesn't mean correct.
Every legitimate fitness organisation - from sports medicine colleges to strength and conditioning associations - recommends combining strength training with fat loss. They all say the same thing because the science is overwhelmingly clear.
This isn't controversial. It's not debatable. It's just basic exercise physiology.
What This "Expert" Should Have Said
"If you're overweight and want to lose fat, start lifting weights immediately. You'll build muscle, improve your insulin sensitivity, preserve your metabolism, and end up with a much better physique than if you just diet alone."
But that doesn't sound as clever or contrarian, does it?
The Bottom Line
Don't let some social media "expert" convince you to avoid the very thing that will give you the best results.
Strength training during fat loss isn't optional - it's essential.
You can lose fat and build muscle at the same time, especially if you're overweight and new to lifting. Your insulin resistance isn't a barrier - it's exactly why you need to start lifting weights.
Trust decades of research, not some muppet with an Instagram account.
Start lifting. Start today. Your future self will thank you for ignoring this dangerous nonsense.
J.



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