Before I start, I want to be clear about what I mean when I mention 'strength training'. I don't mean bodybuilding, powerlifting, Olympic lifting or any means of competitive sports. In the rawest form, strength training is a form of physical exercise using resistance to induce muscular contraction (exercise aiming to specifically work the muscles). You don't have to be a natural born athlete to reap the benefits of lifting weights, nor aspire to be. There are a whole list of benefits that go along with strength training that sometimes slip under the radar - benefits that will keep your body a well-oiled machine and improve the quality of your life and I thoroughly believe these benefits far outweigh any reason to not include it in your life; and that is what I will be discussing in this article.
When properly performed, strength training can provide significant functional benefits and improvement in overall health and well-being, including increased bone, muscle, tendon and ligament strength and toughness, improved joint function, reduced potential for injury increased bone density, increased metabolism, increased fitness, improved cardiac function, prevent osteoporosis and manage arthritis, and elevated HDL ("good") cholesterol. Older people who take up weight training can prevent some of the loss of muscle tissue that normally accompanies aging-and even regain some functional strength-and by doing so become less frail.
Put simply - you will feel great, rarely deal with injuries, have increased energy, have a healthier heart and healthier cholesterol in the bloodstream. You will go through your day-to-day activities in BEAST MODE and still have enough energy to play with the kids and open that jar of pasta sauce all while getting a better sleep at night. The stronger your muscles, the easier life is.
Now, if you aren't already looking forward to your next (or first?) weights session, here a few added benefits:
- Resistance training elevates metabolism for several hours following the workout, which also promotes fat loss. You will be burning more energy by just existing for the next 24-48 hours after a session.
- Many people take up weight training to improve their physical attractiveness. Most men can develop substantial muscles; women lack the testosterone to do it, but they can develop a firm, "toned" physique.
- One side effect of any intense exercise is increased levels of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine, which can help to improve mood and counter feelings of depression.
As you can see I am extremely passionate about strength training and everything that comes with it. Whether you are in need of rehabilitation, postural changes, increased metabolism, fitness for sport, fat loss or just maintaining general health - strength training will add significant value to your life in more ways than one, and will play a crucial role in the quality of your life.
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
