Five benefits of proper weight training
Many people want to get fit, but how could weightlifting fit into that plan?
Here are some of the benefits.
Improves physical fitness: If you think that a weight lifting program is only for athletes or people who frequent the beach, you’re wrong! Who picks up your dog’s twenty-five pound bag of food? Or, what about the grandmother who wants to be able to carry her grandchild? Weight training can help you do things you want to do every day — with greater ease and comfort.
Increases Bone Density: Increased bone density strengthens your bones. Strong bones can help to prevent fractures and osteoporosis – a disease characterized by low bone mass and the structural deterioration of bone tissue. Evidence shows that combining a proper diet with resistance training may help to reverse some of the bone loss associated with osteoporosis.
Improves Body Composition: Weight training can reduce your body fat and increase your muscle mass. Add cardiovascular training and good nutritional practices to this activity, and you’re on your way to improving your body composition.
Increases Metabolism: An increase in muscle mass could boost your metabolism. That’s good news if you’re trying to lose or control your weight.
Prevents Injury: Keeping your muscles toned and strong can help prevent a host of injuries. When you work to improve the strength of your muscles, you’re helping ensure that your body is prepared to work a bit harder for those unexpected times when you’re placed in an awkward position. Whether you’re catching yourself from a slip and fall or reaching into your trunk to lift a heavy bag of groceries, stronger muscles will help keep you injury-free.
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About the Author
Danielle Lueck, MS, LAT is a licensed athletic trainer located at Aurora Sports Medicine Institute in Milwaukee and provides athletic training coverage at Whitefish Bay High School.
Everything that you say about using weights is true. When I turned 45, I started training using weights. I was very religious about it. I also rode my bike 22 miles a day 6 days a week up until right before Thanksgiving. As long as there wasn’t any snow. My body fat was approximately 7%. When I turned 65 had a bone density test and it was excellent. Also at 70 and 75 still my bones are in good shape. I would recommend using weights at any age. I am older than 75 and still use weights, not as often as I should. I do a lot of walking; my steps range from 5500 to 10,000 depending on the day of the week.
I would also suggest hiring a personal trainer. They are worth the price. Try one out for at least a few weeks, if it’s not a good fit for you personality-wise, try another one. If price worries you, check with your local park district, they often have very reasonable rates.
Very true. At one time I was at 245lbs and about 35-36% body fat, diabetic and HPB. I started incorporating weight lifting along with cardio 20 minutes a session into my program. I’m down to one diabetic med and BP is within the standard. Today I’m down to 180lbs with 27% body fat and still losing weight. I’m able to bend at the knees to get up on the roof of the house and clean out the gutters, without having to get on my knees. I’ll admit it’s been tough over the years especially when the lazy bug hits. There are days I have to push myself to workout. So the way I see it is it’s a frame of mind. For those of you that are struggling keep at it and results will come. Good luck!