Have you ever asked yourself if weight lifting is for you? Maybe you’ve seen people lifting at the gym and felt intimidated by that type of workout. It might interest you to know that the WHO recommends everyone incorporate two strength training sessions each week. Here are some compelling reasons for you to start today.
Reduce Risk of Injury
Lifting weights will make you strong. Duh, right? Not only will it strengthen your muscles, it will make your bones, ligaments, connective tissue and tendons stronger too. When you have strong connective tissues, your body will operate at its highest ability. Doing this will reduce your risk of injury. Developing a solid weight lifting routine will help keep you healthy well into old age. It can prevent many of the common issues that plague the elderly population.
Increase Balance Stability and Flexibility
Having a strength training regimen can also prevent the loss of muscle, stability and range of motion as you age. When you dedicate time to lifting weights, it helps work your joints as well as your muscles. Keeping these strong will lead to increased flexibility and balance. It’s important to lay a strong foundation now. Growing and maintaining strength is something that will become increasingly important as you grow older.
Benefit Your Heart
Weight lifting will help improve your heart health. An article written by Sarah Klein for huffpost.com explains, “Despite the name, cardio isn’t the only form of exercise with cardiovascular benefits. A resistance training routine has been shown to lower blood pressure, in some cases as effectively as taking medication. The American Heart Association recommends adults aim for at least two strength training sessions a week.” Working out is a natural remedy to many health issues and may help reduce the number of medications you need to take.
Location
One of the most compelling reasons why you should incorporate weights into your workout routine is the flexibility in location they offer. You can do this type of workout almost anywhere. Klein also states, “We’re using the term “lifting weights,” but the world of strength and resistance training includes a whole host of options outside of what you’d find at the gym. You can “lift weights” with cans and jars you find in your kitchen. You can “lift weights” using only your body. You can buy a pair of five-pound dumbbells and lift along with a DVD in the comfort of your own living room, where the only person checking you out in the mirror is you. In fact, if you’re new to strength training, many moves are safer if performed with just your bodyweight until you can get the hang of perfect form.” Having numerous, convenient places to workout will increase the likelihood of you following through.
The benefits of lifting weights are both physical and mental. Outside of an improved body image and confidence, you’ll find comfort in knowing that your actions today will help improve your long term health as well.
