I am on a mission. I have
committed my life to educate my community to the value and immense
benefits of strength training. There are numerous reasons for
incorporating a safe & effective strength training program into
your life. Some of them are listed here......
Slows the aging process
Without strength training adults lose muscle mass. Research has
shown more than ½ lb of muscle is lost every year after the age of
25. Unless you strength train. Numerous studies have shown
that muscles can be strengthened well into old age and even
the need for walkers and canes can be reversed in some cases.
The quality of life as you age can be maintained and even improved.
We all have the opportunity to remain physically, mentally,
socially, and sexually active through a safe and effective strength
training program.
Strengthens bone by increasing bone density
The proper level of strength training improves muscle tissue and bone
tissue. Training stimulus increases osteoproteins and the mineral
content of bones. Making the bones stronger. When bone density is
increased we reduce the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Reduces pain and symptoms caused by numerous diseases and chronic conditions
Conditions such as Arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, back pain,
depression, and obesity have all shown significant improvement
during research studies using a regularly preformed carefully
monitored strength training program. Increasing muscle strength to support
your joints will ease joint pain. Increasing muscle density to support your
metabolism will help with glucose control. When you strength train,
your self-confidence and self-esteem will improve which has a strong
impact on the overall quality of your life.
Increases caloric burn
Strength training increases the body's metabolic rate, causing the
body to burn more calories throughout the day. When you increase
your muscle tissue your body naturally burns more calories therefore
reducing the potential for fat accumulation. Each pound of lean
muscle burns 35-50 calories per day.
Strength training can provide up to a 15% increase in metabolic
rate, which is enormously helpful for weight loss and long-term
weight control.
Improves glucose control
More than 14 million Americans have type 11 diabetes – a staggering 300%
increase over the past forty years - and the numbers are steadily
climbing. In addition to being at greater risk for heart and renal
disease, diabetes is also the leading cause of blindness in older
adults. Studies show that lifestyle changes such as strength
training have a profound impact on helping adults manage their
diabetes.
Aids digestion
Research has demonstrated that the passage of food through the
alimentary canal was 56% faster after participants strength trained
for a 3 month period. This means faster elimination of toxins from
the body.
Decreases risk of injury
Strength training increases bone density, tendon and ligament
strength and builds a solid foundation. It helps maintain
flexibility and joint strength. Our muscles also function as shock
absorbers and serve as important balancing agents throughout our
body. When our muscles are maintained and kept strong the risk of
injury is greatly reduced because the body in general is more
resilient. If an injury should occur the body will recuperate more
quickly.
Improves balance and reduces risk of falling
Muscle strengthening exercises, when done properly and through a full range
of motion, increase a person's flexibility and balance which will
decrease the likelihood and severity of falls. Strong leg and core
muscles help stabilize us.
Decreases risk of coronary disease
Strength training has been shown to reduce blood pressure and
cholesterol levels. Also, heart disease risk is lower when the body
is leaner. Even aerobic capacity has shown improvement through a
strength training program. The American Heart Association recommends
strength training as a way to reduce the risk of heart disease and
as a therapy for patients in cardiac rehabilitation programs.
Enhances work, recreation and sports performance
No matter what your favorite sport or recreation activity is, proper
strength training will undoubtedly improve your performance. When
your muscles and joints are strong and flexible everything you do
becomes easier and more enjoyable. Sport specific training will not
only enhance your ability to participate in your sport but will also
help prevent injuries.
Decreases symptoms of depression and anxiety
Strength training provides similar improvements in depression as
anti-depressant medications. Currently, it is not known if this is
because people feel better when they are stronger or if the training
program produces a helpful biochemical change in the brain. It is
most likely a combination of the two. Exercise does release
chemicals into the bloodstream that are known to be natural mood
enhancers and pain relievers.
Improves sleep
People who exercise regularly enjoy improved sleep quality. They fall
asleep more quickly, sleep more deeply, awaken less often, and sleep
longer. As with depression, the sleep benefits obtained as a result
of strength training are comparable to treatment with medication but
without the side effects or the expense.
Increases self-esteem, confidence and self-worth
There is nothing more satisfying than the feeling after a good solid
work-out. Stronger muscles and joints can have a dramatic impact on
posture and leaner toned muscles tend to make everyone feel better
about their appearance. The knowledge that you are doing something
so important for your health and well-being will lead to improved
self-esteem, increased self-confidence and the desire to do your NEXT work-out.
Now you realize that strength training should be an important part of you life. Strength
training provides many important benefits that cannot be achieved by
any other exercise or activity. When you begin achieving great
results, the excitement and fun you experience will make the
addition of a strength training program to your life well worth the
effort. Action creates motivation!
