Benefits of Strength Training Revealed
There are many different opinions and beliefs when it comes to the benefits related to strength training. Some of the most common reasons for avoiding the weights is that people don’t want to lift weights because they don’t want to “bulk up” or that doing “cardio” burns more calories so they would rather use their time at the gym sweating it out on the treadmill or elliptical trainer. These myths surrounding resistance training are all too common, but for those wanting to lose weight, strength training is crucial to success. In combination with good nutrition and cardiovascular exercise, lifting weights will provide the largest benefits in changing the appearance of the body and decreasing body fat percentage. Strength training will only cause someone to “bulk up” if they are lifting very heavy weights for a very low number of repetitions, with a properly designed strength program an increase in muscle mass will actually have the opposite effect and make one look more toned and lean.
Here are some of the main benefits of strength training:
Increased muscle mass and metabolism-Due to the fact that muscle burns more calories than fat, increasing percentage of muscle mass then decreases body fat mass; therefore, metabolism will be increased and you will burn more calories throughout the day.
Increased strength and muscular endurance- An increase in muscle mass will result improved overall strength and muscular endurance making activities of daily living much easier.
Decrease in injuries- An increase in strength provides a more solid base of support, decreasing the stress placed on bones and other soft tissue structures while performing daily activities or sport related movements; in turn, decreasing the possibility of injury.
Increased bone strength- This will reduce the possibility of developing osteoporosis.
Some other benefits include: Increased self confidence and self-esteem, increased energy, improved posture, and improved balance and coordination.
A number of people do not feel comfortable going to the gym and lifting dumbbells, but there are many alternative ways to strength train outside of the gym. Body weight exercises or group fitness class’s are great options, also performing exercises with a stability ball or resistance tubing provide similar results. If you need assistance selecting exercises specific to your body type and individual fitness goals consider hiring a personal trainer to get you started. A personal trainer will usually perform an initial fitness assessment, in which they will determine your current fitness level, discover any muscle imbalance or specific areas of weakness, and create a personalized program best for your needs.
Don’t shy away from the weights: increase in strength = improved quality of life!
Michelle Roots BA Kin, CSCS
www.CORE-Condition.com
