Most people want to lose weight, behealthier, and feel more confident again. However, a common stipulation weoften here is, “But I don't want my muscles to get too big and bulky.”
Some people only lift weights at higher repranges because of this. Others don't lift weights at all.
We're here to tell you, it is VERY hard tobuild enough muscle to think of yourself as “too bulky”. Also, it doesn't happenovernight, so as you hit a point where you are happy with how much muscle youhave, you can simply scale back to a maintenance volume (you won't build more,but you'll keep what you have).
Lifting weights is SO important. It isarguably the number one factor (nutrition is right there with it) for improvingbody composition. On top of that, strength training is also a criticallyimportant component of increasing longevity and health span.
You need to be doing it.. Even if it's onlytwice per week. Even if it's only bodyweight movements because you have noequipment and can't go to the gym. Even if it's only for 20 minutes.
And just because lists are fun, here are abunch of amazing things that strength training improves:
Physical Benefits
- Increased Muscle Mass: Strength training helps build and maintain muscle mass, which can enhance physical appearance and strength.
- Improved Bone Density: Regular strength training can increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Enhanced Metabolism: Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue, even at rest. Strength training can boost your metabolism, aiding in weight management.
- Joint Health: Strength training strengthens the muscles around joints, providing better support and reducing the risk of injury.
- Increased Strength and Endurance: Regular strength training enhances overall strength and muscular endurance, making daily activities easier.
- Better Balance and Stability: Stronger muscles improve balance and coordination, which can help prevent falls, especially in older adults.
- Improved Cardiovascular Health: Strength training can improve heart health by reducing body fat, lowering blood pressure, and improving cholesterol levels.
Mental Benefits
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Physical activity, including strength training, can reduce stress and anxiety levels through the release of endorphins.
- Improved Mood: Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
- Better Sleep: Strength training can lead to better sleep quality and help with insomnia.
- Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem: Achieving strength goals and seeing physical improvements can boost self-confidence and self-esteem.
- Enhanced Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest that strength training can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline with aging.
Long-term Health Benefits
- Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Strength training can help manage and prevent chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
- Increased Longevity: Regular physical activity, including strength training, is associated with a longer lifespan.
There ya have it folks, strength trainingis about more than simply stepping on a stage.. But you will feel damn goodnaked when you start using it the right way ;)
ICYMI- July's code for new members to get afree month of the SDE Method app is “fireworks”. Redeem it at check-out!