What comes to mind when you think of strength training? Maybe a bodybuilder lifting a significant amount of weight? Here’s the thing: strength training should be part of everyone’s fitness routine. Weight or resistance training, as it’s often called, is designed to improve muscular fitness by exercising a specific muscle group against external resistance. Strength training may include free weights, equipment, or your own body weight. Per the Centers for Disease Control Prevention, adults should engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. So what exactly are the health benefits of strength training? Here is just a handful:
- It makes you stronger and fitter – This one’s a no-doubter. As we get older, muscle strength makes it easier to perform day-to-day tasks. It’s important to know there are two types of resistance training. The first, known as isometric resistance, involves contracting your muscles against a nonmoving object. A push-up is a prime example of isometric resistance considering you’re using the floor. The other type is what we call isotonic strength training. In contrast to isometric resistance, this training is all about contracting your muscles through a range of motion, such as weightlifting.
- It protects bone health and muscle mass – Here’s something you probably didn’t know: we start to lose as much as 5 percent of lean muscle mass per year around age 30. Not surprisingly, strength training works to combat this natural aging process somewhat. Even just 30 minutes of high-intensity resistance training twice a week can improve overall functional performance.
- It helps you achieve those weight loss goals – We tend to think that aerobic exercise is the primary way to lose weight. But just because you aren’t burning a ton of calories doesn’t mean that strength training isn’t beneficial for shedding extra pounds. Researchers think that resistance training is helpful for weight loss because it helps increase one’s metabolism. So after you hop off the treadmill or finish up your run, think about ending the workout with some weights.
- It helps you develop better body mechanics – In this article from Everyday Health, exercise physiologist Neal Pire says, “Balance is dependent on the strength of the muscles that keep you on your feet.” He goes on to explain that “The stronger those muscles, the better you balance.” With that in mind, strength training can definitely keep your balance, coordination, and posture in check.
- It boosts energy levels and improves mood – Think back to the last time you really got after it in the weight room. Whether it was a few days ago or several years ago, you remember the natural high following your workout. That ‘I can take over the world’ feeling is the result of elevated endorphins. These natural opiates produced by the brain lift energy levels and improve mood. As if you still aren’t sold on resistance training, know that it may help you sleep better as well.
Strength Training With Our Personal Trainer
You’re ready to enjoy the results from strength training. But how do you get started? Our advice is getting in touch with a fitness coach at Atlas Nutrition in Fort Collins. The first thing we will do is listen to your goals. Are you hoping to become a bodybuilder? If so, then you can feel comfortable knowing that our team has years of experience in bodybuilding competitions. On the other hand, are you just looking to transform your lifestyle? We can customize a plan that aligns with your goals.
The team at Atlas Nutrition is all about giving clients the best experience. What we mean by this is we will never use a “one-size-fits-all” or “cookie-cutter” approach. Have you been searching for a meal planner that’s been there and done that? Our staff will create a fitness plan that no other client receives. Could you benefit from a unique weight loss plan? Some of our team members began their fitness journey in an effort to shed unwanted pounds, just like you.
Let us show you how much of an impact strength training can have on your life. Contact the trainers at Atlas Nutrition and start conquering your world! See how our training programs are like nothing you’ve ever tried before.
