Strength training, also known as resistance training, involves using weights, resistance bands, or your own body weight to build muscle and improve your strength. Although many people associate strength training with bodybuilding, it is an essential part of overall health and fitness. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of strength training and why lifting weights is essential for your health.
- Increased muscle mass and strength
One of the most obvious benefits of strength training is increased muscle mass and strength. As you challenge your muscles with resistance, they adapt and get stronger. It can help improve your overall physical performance, whether you’re an athlete or just looking to maintain mobility as you age.
- Improved bone density
Strength training can also improve bone density, which is essential for preventing osteoporosis and other bone diseases. When you lift weights or use resistance bands, you put stress on your bones, which stimulates the production of new bone tissue. This can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures and other injuries.
- Reduced risk of chronic disease
Strength training may also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Resistance training can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can reduce the risk of diabetes. It may also help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health, which may reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Improved mood and mental health
Strength training has also been shown to improve mood and mental health. Resistance training can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve self-esteem and self-confidence, and reduce symptoms of depression. It may also improve cognitive function and memory, which may help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
- Increased metabolism and fat loss
Strength training can also increase metabolism and promote fat loss. As you build muscle, your body needs more energy to maintain that muscle, which can increase metabolism and help burn more calories. Strength training can also help reduce body fat, especially around the abdomen, which is associated with an increased risk of chronic disease.
- Improved posture and balance
Strength training can also help improve posture and balance, which can reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. As you build muscle and improve your strength, you also improve your overall stability and coordination.
Incorporate strength training into your routine
Now that you know the benefits of strength training, how can you incorporate it into your fitness routine? It’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts over time. You can start with bodyweight exercises, such as pushups, squats, and lunges, and gradually add weights or resistance bands as you progress.
It’s also important to focus on proper form and technique to avoid injury. Consider working out with a personal trainer or attending a weight training class to learn proper form and technique.
Finally, it’s important to give your muscles time to rest and recover between workouts. Aim to train at least two to three times a week, with at least 48 hours between each workout to allow for adequate recovery.
In conclusion, strength training is an essential part of overall health and fitness. It can help increase muscle mass and strength, improve bone density, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mood and mental health, increase metabolism and promote fat loss, and improve posture and balance. Incorporating strength training into your fitness routine can help you achieve your health and fitness goals and improve your overall quality of life.
Sources:
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). The benefits of bodybuilding. Extract of https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-benefits-of-strength-training
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Muscle training: get stronger, leaner, healthier. Extract of https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/strength-training/art-20046670
- American Council on Exercise. (nd). Why bodybuilding? Extract of https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/professional/expert-articles/5446/why-strength-training
- National Institute of Aging. (2020). Strength training. Extract of https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/strength-training
- Centers for Control and Prevention of Disasters. (2021). The benefits of bodybuilding. Extract of https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adding-strength-training/index.html
