Weight loss and overall health are important reasons to hit the gym.
However, many people spend most of their time focusing on cardio
routines. Cardio is only one part of the health benefits of working out. The other part of getting you fit is strength training. By incorporating a regular strength training routine, people can improve their weight loss, overall physique, overall health, and longevity. A regular strength-training program can include weight lifting, resistance training, Pilates, and/or yoga to your fitness routine. If you are unsure how to strength train, the best thing you can do is contact a fitness professional to help with form, breathing, and exercise preparation.
It is a proven fact that muscle burns more calories, at rest, than fat. Strength training helps you burn more calories than cardio. You burn calories during strength training, and your body continues to burn calories after strength training, a process called “physiologic homework.” More calories are used to make and maintain muscle than fat. In fact strength training can boost your metabolism by 15 percent.
Muscles will get better definition from weight or resistance training. If you sit on a cardio machine for an hour, you are only working a small portion of your body. Circuit and resistant training classes will help you sculpt the body you’ve always desired.
Strength training has benefits that go well beyond the appearance of nicely defined muscles. Your balance, coordination, and posture will improve greatly. More importantly, if you have poor flexibility and balance, strength training can reduce your risk of falling by approximately 40 percent. It can be a crucial benefit as you get older.
In conclusion, strength training can boost your everyday functioning
capabilities. According to the American Heart Association strength and
resistance training benefits extend not only to your physical well-being but, also, to your mental outlook. Start out slowly, and gradually increase the time and intensity of your training. As always, check with your doctor prior to starting an exercise program.
-Shannon Flanagan