If you’re like most people, you probably think of strength training as something that is reserved for bodybuilders and athletes. However, the truth is that strength training offers a world of benefits that can be enjoyed by everyone. Research has shown that strength training can improve your overall health. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of strength training.
What is Strength Training?
Strength training is a type of physical activity designed to improve muscular strength and endurance. Strength training can be performed using bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, dumbbells, barbells, or weight machines. Strength training is an important part of any fitness program and can help to improve bone density, joint function, and overall health.
Strength training can be done at home or in the gym. The most common types of strength training include:
- Body Weight
- Resistance Tubing
- Free Weights
- Weight Machines
- Cable Suspension Training
Benefits of Strength Training
Burns Calories Efficiently
Strength training helps build muscle mass, and muscle tissue burns more calories — even when you’re at rest — than body fat. The more muscle you have, the higher your metabolism will be, which will help you torch more calories all day long. And the more calories you burn, the easier it is to lose weight and keep it off.
Decreases Abdominal Fat
Strength training can help you burn abdominal fat, according to a study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. The researchers found that men who performed 12 weeks of strength training lost more visceral fat (the dangerous kind surrounding your organs) than those who didn’t lift weights.
Improves Mood
Exercise, in general, has been shown to improve mood and fight depression, but strength training may have an advantage over other types of exercise for people with depression. Releasing feel-good endorphins, natural cannabis-like brain chemicals (endogenous cannabinoids), and other natural brain chemicals can enhance your sense of well-being.
Improves Heart Health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, but regular strength training can help reduce your risk. Strength training helps to improve heart health by reducing blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and reducing body fat. All of these factors can help to reduce your risk of heart disease.
Improves Brain Health
Physical activity can improve your cognitive health—helping you think, learn, problem-solve, and enjoy an emotional balance. It can improve memory and reduce anxiety or depression.
Strength training is an important part of any fitness routine. It can help you burn more calories, tone your body and improve your overall health. We encourage you to try it if you’re not currently strength training. You may be surprised at how beneficial it can be.
To get the most out of strength training, check out ZIVA’s wide variety of strength training equipment for all fitness levels.