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The Many Benefits of
Weight Lifting
Most people, especially women, discard weight lifting as a good form of
exercise because they think that weight lifting will actually make their
bodies look like a man. If you are one of those people, then you might be
surprised to know that this is not true. The hormones of man and woman
are not the same. The hormone testosterone plays a major role in muscular
development. Because women have very little of this hormone, they tend not
to "bulk-up" with weight training.
Researches also
demonstrate that resistance exercise, also called strength training, like
weight training and weight lifting, has profound effects on the
musculoskeletal system, contributes to the maintenance of functional
abilities, and prevents osteoporosis, sarcopenia (loss of body mass),
lower-back pain, and other disabilities.
Weight lifting also
contributes to muscle conditioning. Muscle conditioning is important for
the overall stability and strength of the body. It is beneficial until the
end of life if well maintained. Muscle conditioning is good for the bones
because bones grow stronger and denser with stresses put on the muscles
around them.
Moreover, weight
lifting makes the muscles, connective tissues and tendons stronger.
The way you sit and
stand are influenced by the health of a network of neck, shoulder, back,
hip and abdominal muscles. Stronger muscles can help you stand and sit
straighter and more comfortably. You may notice improved balance and
stability.
As you begin to
notice the positive physical changes in your body and develop a regular
exercise routine, your ability to handle stress effectively will
improve. Weight training allows you to sleep better, i.e., fall asleep
quicker and sleep deeper. Clinical studies have shown regular exercise to
be one of the three best tools for effective stress management.
Weight lifting, like
most forms of exercise also raises metabolism thus causing the body to
burn more calories. This helps in the maintenance of our desirable
weight. Boosted metabolism (which means burning more calories when at
rest) with reduced body fat. Your overall weight may not change, but you
will gain muscle and lose fat. Over time you should notice decreases in
waist measurements and body fat measurement.
Remember the adage
“something is better than nothing.” Start improving your health. A
little start like lifting those grocery bags and rocking your baby to
sleep may mean a decrease on your risk of muscle loss on later years.
Consult with your
doctor if you want to make weight lifting a daily part of your fitness
regimen |
