Weight Lifting and Its Many Benefits
Most people, especially women, discard weight lifting as a good form of exercise
because they think that weight lifting will actually make their bodies look like
a man. If you are one of those people, then you might be surprised to know that
this is not true. The hormones of man and woman are not the same. The hormone
testosterone plays a major role in muscular development. Because women have very
little of this hormone, they tend not to "bulk-up" with weight training.
Researches also demonstrate that resistance exercise, also called strength
training, like weight training and weight lifting, has profound effects on the
musculoskeletal system, contributes to the maintenance of functional abilities,
and prevents osteoporosis, sarcopenia (loss of body mass), lower-back pain, and
other disabilities.
Weight lifting also contributes to muscle conditioning. Muscle conditioning is
important for the overall stability and strength of the body. It is beneficial
until the end of life if well maintained. Muscle conditioning is good for the
bones because bones grow stronger and denser with stresses put on the muscles
around them. Moreover, weight lifting makes the muscles, connective tissues and
tendons stronger.
The way you sit and stand are influenced by the health of a network of neck,
shoulder, back, hip and abdominal muscles. Stronger muscles can help you stand
and sit straighter and more comfortably. You may notice improved balance and
stability.
As you begin to notice the positive physical changes in your body and develop a
regular exercise routine, your ability to handle stress effectively will improve.
Weight training allows you to sleep better; fall asleep quicker and sleep deeper.
Clinical studies have shown regular exercise to be one of the three best tools for
effective stress management.
Weight lifting, like most forms of exercise also raises metabolism thus causing
the body to burn more calories. This helps in the maintenance of our desirable
weight. Boosted metabolism (which means burning more calories when at rest) will
reduce body fat. Your overall weight may not change, but you will gain muscle
and lose fat. Over time you should notice decreases in waist measurements and
body fat measurement.
Remember the adage "something is better than nothing." Start today improving
your health. A little start like lifting those grocery bags and rocking
your baby to sleep may mean a decreased risk of muscle loss on later
years.
Don't keep putting it off! It's time for a change and for overall improved health!
We recommend you read the most up-to-date
weight-loss information, articles, and products available at
LoseThatWeight.com. When you're fit, you feel so much better about yourself!
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