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.
|
Additional Effects
of weight lifting
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.
-
