There are a number of ways to exercise and deciding which ones are best for you can be a daunting task. Should you just do cardio? What about yoga? Is Pilates the way to go?
These are all great ways to stay active and provide amazing benefits.
However, implementing weight training into your fitness regimen will provide the most results to further your fitness goals.
I will define weight training, often times called resistance training, as a type of physical exercise that requires you to place a stress on your body that you are not accustomed to. Over time, you will add additional weight to this activity to increase the stress. This type of exercise can be intimidating to those that are not familiar with the movements and/or how to determine what weight and/or sets to use.
Both men and women will benefit from incorporating weight training into their weekly routine. Researchers have found that weight training counteracts bone loss and postural deficits. Additionally, weight training has been found to reduce body weight among older men with type 2 diabetes.
Another benefit is counteracting inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a major risk factor for heart disease and when inflammation is present you are more susceptible to illness and injuries. Weight training works against the inflammation to reverse its effects on your body.
Weight training and resistance training help you build muscles; muscles that help you burn fat in the long run. These muscles are then strong and flexible to further your stability and strength in other physical aspects of your life such as extracurricular sports, manual labor, or just being all around busy and active.
As you can see, weight training is a crucial aspect in achieving your overall optimal fitness level. You don’t have to give up your cardio, yoga, Pilates or spend hours at the gym to reap the benefits of weight training. Incorporate two days a week at 30-45 minutes and start living a stronger healthier life today!
Check out this link for a quick and easy weight training workout you can do at home. http://scottkeppel.com/sample-full-body-workouts/
About the Author
Scott Keppel is the owner of Scott’s Training Systems, a world-class coaching facility in Chandler, Arizona. He is a nationally certified trainer through NASM and ISSA. His mission is to empower women of all ages and fitness levels. For more information head to scottstrainingsystems.com or check him out on Instagram at @stsnation.
