Here’s why getting stronger is so essential.
Weightlifting and strength training are ubiquitous forms of exercise that millions of people do around the world. These are the most popular forms of exercise and have been practiced for thousands of years.
There’s are a ton of reasons for the popularity strength training has enjoyed. Even if you don’t lift weights, you should do strength training consistently. It is vital for your overall health, and it will keep you stronger and more able to live your life the way you want to for longer.
If you aren’t used to strength training, start slow. You will likely feel sore (check out our Recovery blogs for more information on how to recover from training). There is also a risk of injury, especially if you use improper form, so talk to an FNS Coach if you have any questions about where to start.
Even if you are experienced with strength training, it’s essential to know why you’re doing it. Here are just a few of the many benefits of strength training:
Builds muscle – This one is probably the most famous benefit of strength training. Strength training is perhaps the best way you can build muscle. Becoming stronger is a great way to improve your health, ability to perform daily tasks and make you feel better overall.
Building muscle doesn’t mean you will end up looking like Arnold Schwarzenegger. It just means you’ll be stronger, and your body will be able to handle more, which is a good thing. It would be best to not worry about bulking up too much unless you decide to stick to a strict weightlifting regimen and high protein diet.
Burns calories – Like all exercise, strength training burns calories. Burning more calories than you eat is the only way you can lose weight. According to Harvard, 30 minutes of general weightlifting for a 155-pound person burns around 108 calories, whereas 30 minutes of vigorous lifting burns 216 calories.
In addition to calorie burning during exercise, strength training and muscle growth will help you burn more at rest. The reason for this is that muscle tissue is more effective at burning calories than fat. As you gain muscle, your body will naturally burn more calories to support the new muscle.
Strengthens bones and reduces injury risk – In addition to stronger muscles, strength training can give you stronger bones and joints. Strong bones and joints are significant as we get old. Strength training and weightlifting strengthen our bones like the spine, hips, and wrists, more prone to break easily.
Muscles are the foundation of movement in your body. Without them, you can’t do much. When they aren’t strong enough to handle such work, you’re more likely to get injured, especially as you grow old.
Improves heart health – Lots of research has shown that strength training and weightlifting can reduce your risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends doing some form of strength training at least twice per week.
These are just a few of the benefits of strength training. If you’re looking to improve your health and life overall, give strength training a chance and check out some of our other Recovery blogs.
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