Weight training isn't just about building a rock-hard six pack or huge
biceps. Its benefits go beyond a toned body and good looks. From greater self-confidence and stress relief to a lower risk of osteoporosis, lifting weights can improve health on every level. It's ideal for men and women of all ages, body shapes, and sizes. Even those who have never set foot in a gym can begin with strength training. This form of exercise promotes mental and physical well-being, burns fat, increases work performance, and boosts cognitive function. Need more reasons to start lifting weights? Here are the life-changing benefits of strength training:
Improves Brain Health Lifting weights is good for the grey matter. This training method improves decision-making skills, reduces damage to the brain, and stimulates the central nervous system. A recent study indicates that increasing muscle strength may improve brain function. Additionally, it lowers the risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, memory loss, and Parkinson's. Working out regularly may also slow the age-related shrinking of the brain.
Prevents Heart Disease Training with weights improves cardiovascular health in more than one way. This form of exercise helps lower triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol, elevates HDL (good) cholesterol levels, and reduces blood pressure. It also helps maintain a normal body weight, which further decreases heart disease risk.
Increases Physical Strength Weight training increases physical strength, making everyday activities easier. Those who lift weights can easily carry their groceries, pick up heavy objects, climb the stairs, and move furniture around the house. Things that used to be a real chore get much easier.
Reduces Depression Symptoms A study conducted at Harvard Medical School has found that strength training may reduce depression symptoms. In clinical trials, subjects who trained with weights for 16 weeks overcame depression without the need to use drugs. Some researchers claim that lifting weights is more effective against depression than counseling. This training method boosts endorphin levels in the brain, leading to an improved mental state and a feeling of accomplishment.
Strengthens the Bones Weight training improves bone mineral density and strengthens the bones, which helps prevent osteoporosis. Moreover, it lowers the risk of hip fractures, back pain, bone loss in the spine, age-related bone disorders. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology has shown that subjects who trained with weights for four months experienced a 19 percent increase in their blood levels of osteocalcin and a 3.8 percent increase in hip-bone density.
Boosts Metabolism Gym goers and athletes who lift weights have a faster metabolism and burn more calories at rest. In a clinical trial, men who strength trained two times a week for 18 weeks burned nine percent more calories throughout the day without changing their diet compared to those doing other types of exercise. Weight lifting increases muscle mass and torches fat, which in turn, increases metabolic rate.
Improved Body Mechanics When a person begins to lift weights, his balance and flexibility improve. This form of training reduces the risk of falling by over 40 percent, enhances stability, and boosts coordination. In the long run, it improves posture and helps prevent spine curvature disorders, such as lordosis and scoliosis. Most gym goers also report less back pain and greater range of motion.
