5 Reasons Why Strength Training Is Right For You

Some people probably envision a juiced up powerlifter in a singlet when they hear "strength training".

But strength training is not just for meat heads and gym rats. In fact, I think strength training is for everyone; young and old.

So, what do I mean by "strength training"

Strength training is the utilization of resistance to progressively overload muscles to produce strength gains.

I have been strength training for several years now.

The wealth of benefits it offers goes far beyond the increased strength and improved body composition.

Strength training may just be the Fountain of Youth we've all been searching for.

Ok, I may be exaggerating slightly...

But the benefits to strength training are real. I think it is the best type of exercise out there, no matter your fitness goal. I hope to have you convinced also by the end of this post.

1. Manage Your Weight Easier

Strength training increases the metabolism of your muscles, which also increases your bodies total metabolic rate.

You will naturally burn more calories in a day because your muscles are working harder.

Your body will also be more sensitive to insulin. This means your blood sugar will be better regulated AND your body will use the food you eat more efficiently.

2. Develop Strong Bones

Strong muscles is a given, but did you know strength training also builds strong bones?

That's right! Strength training improves bone density and decreases the risk of osteoporosis. The stress produced by lifting weight causes the body's structural systems to adapt to be stronger.

This one is especially important for older women.

3. Have More Energy

Strength training has been shown to improve work capacity, restful sleep and brain chemistry. All of these contribute to your energy level.

I tend to be more productive on days I workout than days I do not.

The rush of endorphins and improved hormone function you get from strength training will also help keep you positive and focused throughout the day.

4. Manage and Prevent Chronic Disease

Many preventable diseases are a result of chronic inflammation. Strength training increases muscle inflammation, temporarily, because you are actually damaging the muscle tissue.

But here's the kicker...

Strength training decreases systemic inflammation. This is the long-term inflammation that can lead to disease.

Sounds confusing, right?

It all goes back to your bodies adaptation to strength training.

Increased work and muscle hypertrophy (growth) cause the rest of your organs and body functions to improve and work more efficiently.

Improved function resolves internal stressors that cause constant inflammation.

Acute (temporary) inflammation is good, necessary. Chronic inflammation is bad.

Heart disease, arthritis, chronic pain, obesity, diabetes and depression are just a few examples of diseases that can be managed and even prevented by simply eating well and strength training.

5. Improved Quality of Life

Life quality naturally decreases with age because of decreased movement and function. Muscle wasting is a major cause of impaired movement and motor function.

After about the age of 35, your body will lose 0.2% of muscle mass annually. Muscle wasting is an issue in senior adults and can lead to injury, most commonly from falls.

Muscle mass is actually linked to life expectancy, specifically in the lower body.

So, I would argue that muscle preservation is key to living better longer.

Muscle wasting can be stopped and even reversed through strength training.

I recently heard about a study that used a population with an average age of 85. These people were put through a 6-week strength training program. They were increasing their max weight on leg press by 50% and 60%.

At 85 years old.

That's why I say strength training works for the young and the old. It's not too late to start.

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Today we are living longer lives, thanks to modern medicine, but we aren't exactly living better ones. In fact, there seems to be a premature decrease in life quality, accelerated by chronic disease.

I'm not saying strength training is the answer to everything, but you can't deny the health benefits.

Strength training will make you look good AND feel good for years to come.

So...

Have I made a believer out of you yet?

Drop a comment on the main page and let me know!