Benefits of Lifting Weights

Both men and women alike benefit from lifting weights. That’s right; it’s not only a man’s thing! Weight training has shown to yield better results than cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercises, including running, elliptical, or biking, can actually harm your joints. Many runners are known to have knee issues and if you are continuously straining, you could harm your hips as well. In fact, cardio is not doing much in regards to changing your body composition. The more cardio you do, the more muscle you lose. This can leave your bones at risk for joint damage. However, cardio is good for your heart which is why we suggest doing HIIT 2-3 times week.

Benefits:

·         Gain Strength – The most common reason people lift weights is to be strong. Feeling weak is not a good feeling, but once you’re in the gym moving weight you never imagined – it’s a wonderful feeling! You will see your strength increase, along with your confidence.

·         Burns Fat – The more muscle you have, the more fat you burn by doing nothing. For example, someone who has a significant amount of muscle to someone who doesn’t would be burning more calories sitting on the couch watching TV. That’s great, right?!

·         Change in Body Composition – Lifting weights allows you’re to change your body composition. You will be gaining muscle and losing fat (with the help of your diet), which alters the way you look. Muscle takes up less room and is much more compact than fat which is why the change is so dramatic. In some cases, you may lose inches but gain weight. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that – you’re doing something right!

·         Prevents Metabolic Decline – If you are over 30, you might have suffered from a decline in your metabolism causing you to gain weight. Lifting weights is known to naturally reverse this, allowing you to eat what you like and keep you in shape.

·         Bone Strength – Lifting weights not only helps you increase your muscle strength, but also your bone strength. This is very important for women as they are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis.

·         Posture – Are you always slouching in your chair? Do you stand with your shoulders hunched? Weight training can help with your posture by building a strong back, shoulders, and core. Say goodbye to lower back pain!

·         Release Endorphins – Endorphins are known to significantly improve mood. These are also release when you experience excitement or eat spicy food. If you are feeling stressed or in a bad mood, go work out and get those endorphins pumping! Have you every regretting a workout? I didn’t think so!

·         Confidence – There is no better feeling than pushing yourself to become a better you. By lifting weights, you will transform your body and become a stronger version of yourself. Your confidence with radiate and you’ll be happy with how you look and feel!

There is no better time than now to start working toward your goal and achieving it! Try incorporating these great exercises into your routine!