At Optimum we're big advocates of strength training and getting our clients strong! The advantages that strength training offers to adults in their pursuit of fitness and well-being is tenfold and I can't stress enough how important it is for your general wellbeing and longevity.
From physical to mental - there is a benefit to everyone in getting strong - and no that doesn't mean you need to be throwing heavy weights around!
Improved Muscle Mass and Strength
One of the most evident benefits of strength training is the enhancement of muscle mass and strength. As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass, which can lead to numerous issues with a decrease in metabolic rate and an increased risk of injury being two of the most prevalent. Strength training can help to counter this by helping you build and maintain muscle and gain strength. You don't need to think of the extremes either - you won't become a bodybuilder when you strength train; you'll simple enhance your body's functional capabilities (you might look better too!)
Enhanced Bone & Joint Health
Building strong muscles isn't the only benefit from strength training. Your bones and joints do too! This is especially vital as we get older, as it can help prevent diseases such as osteoporosis and maintain overall bone and joint health. Regular strength training helps to improve bone density and joint strength - the most common trait with pain is nearly always down to weakness!
Weight Management
If you're looking to shed a few kilo's or maintain a healthy weight, strength training can be your secret weapon. Muscle burns more calories at rest than fat does, so as you build muscle through strength training you'll in turn be helping to boost your metabolism. Over time this can make a significant difference in your ability to manage your weight effectively and also who doesn't like being able eat more food?
Enhanced Daily Functionality
Have you ever struggled to carry heavy objects around the house, play with the kids or climb a flight of stairs? Strength training can help improve your daily functionality by making these tasks easier and keeping yourself less prone to injuries. By enhancing your general strength inside the gym with training, you'll find that day-to-day activities outside the gym become less challenging and even more rewarding.
Boosted Mental Well-being
Strength training doesn't only benefit your body physically; it's essential for your mental well-being too. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. These endorphins can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. I can't stress enough how consistent training and strength training specifically can provide a sense of accomplishment and improved mental well-being. It is the ultimate hack!
Chronic Disease Prevention
Strength training isn't just about looking good; it's about staying healthy. Studies have shown that strength training can help prevent or manage chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Following a regular strength training programme can help contribute to better blood sugar control, improved cardiovascular health, and reduced risk factors for various diseases. But remember its all part of a big picture - to improve these health markers and optimise your health you must stay on top of your nutrition too!
Increased Longevity
As we age living a longer and healthier life becomes more and more important to us and ensuring that you're able to engage in activities with your kids and feel good within yourself should be a top priority. Strength training and it's host of benefits can play a huge role in contributing towards this and leave you living a more active and fulfilling life in your older years.
To conclude: incorporating strength training into your current routine or starting out with strength training can be a game-changer; regardless of your age. It's a holistic approach to better health, offering benefits for your body both physically and mentally. Don't let stereotypes about strength training hold you back and think it's for people lifting big weights!
It's about you getting stronger one step at a time and it's never too late to start!
Written by Charlie Hitchcock
Owner at Optimum Fitness Tetbury
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