Benefits of Strength Training
By Rachel Carver
Everyone has different fitness goals. Some people want to run a 5K, while others want to become more active. Strength training should be a part of every fitness routine.
What is Strength Training?
Even if you are not aiming for bulging muscles, strength training is still important because it focuses on making your bones, muscles, and connective tissues stronger. It helps your body handle tasks like lifting, pushing, or pulling. Strength training also teaches your nervous system to recruit the right muscles for the task at hand.
Here are some benefits of strength training.
Improves Health
Strength training can decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke, lower blood pressure, and improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. It can also help prevent osteoporosis in older adults. Regular strength training also decreases the risk of bone injury while exercising.
Helps You Stay Fit
Strength training can reduce belly fat and can create a leaner version of yourself. It also boosts overall endurance, making walking, running, and other physical activities easier. Incorporating regular strength training into your routine can even make things such as yard work and moving a piece of heavy furniture less strenuous.
Creates Positive Thinking
Some studies show strength training eases the effects of anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue. Noticing that you look and feel stronger also helps with self-esteem. This can motivate you to try something new or focus on accomplishing another goal.
Here are some basic strength training methods.
Bodyweight Exercises
These exercises require different moves to support your own body to build strength. These include push-ups, squats, and planks. They can easily be done at home without equipment and are very effective at increasing strength.
Free Weights
Free weights -- including barbells and dumbbells -- are a common element of weight lifting. They help you develop functional strength through a variety of motions. You'll find these in every gym. You can also purchase free weights to use at home.
Resistance Bands
These bands give you more opportunity for functional exercises because they do not rely on gravity like free weights. Resistance bands are available in a variety of resistances, which are just as effective as adding more weight during lifting. You can use these bands anywhere.
Machines
Machines are easy to use and promote proper form during lifting movements. They can also target specific muscle groups. However, building strength with the help of a machine is not as functional because it can't always be used in other physical activities.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Taylors, S.C.