The benefits of strength training

Strength training, also known as resistance training, is a form of exercise that involves using weights or other forms of resistance to challenge your muscles. While many people think of strength training as something only bodybuilders or athletes do, the truth is that it has a wide range of benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels.

First and foremost, strength training helps to build and maintain muscle mass. As we age, our muscles naturally start to deteriorate, which can lead to weakness, mobility issues, and even falls. By engaging in regular strength training, you can slow down or even reverse this process, helping to maintain your strength and mobility as you get older.

In addition to building muscle mass, strength training also helps to increase bone density. This is especially important for older adults, who are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions. By engaging in weight-bearing exercises like squats and deadlifts, you can help to stimulate bone growth and maintain a strong, healthy skeleton! Denser bones and stronger muscles have a positive feedback loop in that the stronger your muscles get, the more they pull on your bones which in turn makes the bones denser.

Strength training has also been shown to have a positive impact on a number of chronic health conditions. For example, people with type 2 diabetes can benefit from strength training, as it helps to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Additionally, strength training can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.

Strength training is also great for mental health. Many people find that lifting weights or using resistance bands provides a sense of accomplishment and boosts their confidence. Additionally, strength training has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is because exercise in general releases endorphins, which are the body's natural feel-good chemicals.

Another benefit of strength training is that it can help to improve your overall fitness level. By challenging your muscles, you are not only building strength, but also improving your endurance and cardiovascular health. This can help to increase your energy levels, boost your metabolism, and even improve your sleep quality.

It's important to note that strength training doesn't have to involve lifting heavy weights or using fancy equipment. Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, good mornings and pull-ups can be just as effective, especially for beginners. Additionally, many gyms and fitness centres offer group classes that focus on strength training, which can be a fun and social way to get your workout in. The absolute best way to see results, especially if you’re unsure of what to do, when to do it, or how to perform the right exercises for your goals - is to hire a competent personal trainer to guide you through your strength training journey. Not that I have any bias on that matter, of course!

Overall, there are countless benefits to strength training for people of all ages. Whether you're looking to build muscle, maintain bone density, improve your health, or boost your mental well-being, strength training is an excellent form of exercise to consider incorporating into your routine. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions. You always want to take care of yourself and do things correctly.