What impact does strength training have on metabolic rate?

Strength training has a significant impact on metabolic rate primarily because it increases muscle mass. Muscle tissue is metabolically active, meaning it requires more energy to maintain compared to fat tissue. When an individual engages in strength training, they stimulate muscle growth (hypertrophy) and, as a result, enhance their overall muscle mass.

This increase in muscle mass leads to a higher resting metabolic rate (RMR), meaning the body burns more calories at rest compared to when there is a lower muscle mass. As muscle is built through consistent strength training, there is a permanent elevation in metabolic rate, allowing for more efficient energy expenditure even during periods of inactivity. Thus, strength training not only helps in caloric burn during workouts but also contributes to an overall increase in daily energy expenditure through enhanced metabolism.

In summary, the correct answer reflects that strength training increases metabolic rate due to a rise in muscle mass, which plays a crucial role in energy metabolism.