Don’t Be Fooled — Resistance Training in Baltimore is For Every Age!
So, you don’t want to lift weights because you think it will make you – too bulky? Think resistance training is just for young jocks and you’d rather stick to something more practical at your age, like Ultra Marathons or Tae Bo DVD’s to get toned?
Resistance training has received a real bad rap over the years. It’s being slapped with labels like Meathead and linked to awful personalities from reality TV like those on the Jersey Shore. But don’t let this stereotype fool you, as lifting weights has more to do with your health and the quality of life than you think and brings with it a variety of benefits for all ages.
Let’s quickly break down each of these benefits, and, if by the end of this article you’re not totally convinced, I’ll binge watch all episodes of the Jersey Shore as punishment for my failure.
1) Resistance Training Helps Improve Body Composition
Resistance training acts as a stressor to your body encouraging lean muscle growth. As you know, an increase in lean muscle mass means an increase in strength. But, what you might not know is that those with a higher lean muscle mass percentage also burn more fat in their workouts and throughout the day to feed these muscles.
Resistance training also improves bone density and the connective tissues, which is extremely important for reducing the risk of injury – especially for those of us getting on in age.
Now, just to clarify: No, lifting weights two or three times per week will not make you bulky. Supplementing with nefarious substances while lifting weights, on the other hand, well, that’s a different story.
2) Prevents the Development of Many Illnesses
As we mentioned earlier, lean muscle mass results in a lower body fat percentage. Minimizing body fat is critical as excess body fat – especially the visceral fat within the abdominal cavity – has been linked with an increased risk of:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Cancer
- Heart Attack
- Stroke
- Arthritis
- Depression
- And much, much more!
3) Improves Sleep
Those who regularly perform resistance training are seen to benefit from a higher sleep quality and report fewer instances of waking up during the night. Being able to sleep solidly, without interruption, is essential for achieving the cycles of sleep where both ideal mental and physical recovery take place.
So, consult with a staff member or a Certified Personal Trainer to find out how you can include resistance training in your weekly fitness program. You’ll reduce body fat, tone your body, look incredible, and you’ll feel fantastic!
