New research has shown that those taking part in supervised resistance training benefit from vast improvements in strength, fitness and weight loss, in comparison to traditional training methods.

While general physical activity can have clear positive health impacts, it typically has less benefit in terms of body composition.

However, according to a study published in BMC Public Health – called

Programming and supervision of resistance training leads to positive effects on strength and body composition: results from two randomised trials of community fitness programmes – those who underwent structured and supervised resistance training programmes saw major improvements in both strength and body composition,including an average 2.5 per cent reduction in fat and 2.3kg in lean body mass.

The research, conducted by ukactive in partnership with Technogym, Myzone, Lifetime Training, Parkwood Leisure and Bexley Borough Council, saw researchers measure the strength and body composition of participants as they underwent a period of fitness training, either as part of a structured programme or free gym use.

Based on the findings, ukactive has now called for a roll-out of exercise intervention programmes in GP surgeries across the country, providing one way to help reverse the UK’s obesity epidemic.

"Public health practitioners should recognise resistance training as a key tool for weight loss in exercise programmes," said ukactive's principal investigator dr James Steele.

"Resistance training has historically been under-appreciated and without emphasis in public health efforts.

"Research into applications of resistance training in real-world settings, like in these studies, will hopefully go some way towards evidencing the role it can play in improving the nation’s health."

To read the full report click here.