Mixed
Resistance exercise training (RET) significantly improves lean body mass (LBM) retention during very-low-energy diets (VLEDs) compared to diet-only interventions, whereas aerobic exercise training (AET) yields conflicting or negligible results.
If you are on a very low-calorie diet, prioritize resistance training over cardio if your goal is to keep your muscle. Cardio might not help preserve muscle and results vary. Resistance training is the best tool available to stop muscle loss during rapid weight loss, even if you feel tired.
Current studies suggest that both protein supplementation and exercise training may result in improved LBM retention (and skeletal muscle function) during VLEDs... The reported effects of aerobic exercise training (AET) on LBM preservation during LEDs are conflicting... Resistance exercise training (RET) may significantly improve LBM retention during LEDs, although the precise effect and magnitude are unclear.
Why this rating
The paper is a narrative review citing conflicting RCTs; no single definitive meta-analysis is provided for the specific interaction of RET+VLED.
Source
The Effects of Very Low Energy Diets and Low Energy Diets with Exercise Training on Skeletal Muscle Mass: A Narrative Review
Arash Ardavani et al. · Advances in Therapy · 2020
DOI 10.1007/s12325-020-01562-0
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