HEALTHWISE Strong is For Everyone

Strong is for Everyone

The benefits of strength training

Can still lose weight

A very common misconception with strength training is that you can’t lose weight and gain muscle or strength at the same time. That is definitely not the case and is very achievable when supported by proper nutrition.

Every person who wishes to be healthier, feel stronger, and be

more confident with their body should strength train. Strength training or resistance training comes in many different forms and should not be confined to the perception that if you begin to strength train you will immediately pack on large amounts of muscle that will make you look “bulky.” There are many different forms of strength training aside from complex barbell movements that everyone can benefit from. Circuit training, muscular endurance, muscle hypertrophy, strength training, and power training are different forms of strength training with different adaptations that can be specific to the individual’s fitness goals.

The following highlights the many benefits of strength training and several reasons to consider starting now:

Builds and maintains muscle mass

•Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, becoming stronger makes everyday tasks much easier without your body restricting the life you want to live.

Increases Metabolism

Building muscles increases your metabolic rate, or your body’s ability to use a given amount of calories. Meaning that even after your workout is done you are still burning calories even at rest.

Bone and joint health

While strength training is not the only way to increase your bone density it is one the primary ways to do so. Additionally stronger muscles can relieve joint pain and decrease an athletes or any person's risk of injury.

Heart Health

Strength training can decrease blood pressure, lower bad cholesterol, and improve blood flow. Cardiovascular exercise is a great way to improve your cardiovascular health but there are many forms of strength training like circuit training, bodyweight training, and HIIT training that can produce similar effects!

Good for mental health

We live in an anxiety and stress filled world, however research has shown that strength training can reduce anxiety and boost mood endorphins.

At the end of the day there are many different ways to strength train and not all are for everyone. However everyone can benefit from some sort of strength training given the numerous amounts of health benefits these forms of exercise have to offer. There is never a bad time to start so why not today! ❂ Derek Simon, D1 Grand Rapids Bachelor of Exercise Science emphasis in Health and Fitness – Grand Valley State University Master of Exercise and Nutrition Science –The University of Tampa NASM – Certified Personal Trainer E-FIT – Electrical Muscle Stimulation Certified Training focuses: Injury Rehabilitation and Prevention