HEALTH & FITNESS ARTICLES

Benefits of Resistance Training

Do you want to have a stronger and more beautiful body? Then the best thing to do is get on your feet and start doing resistance training.

What Is Resistance Training? 

Resistance training involves activities that use weights, machines, and even body weight, to work out muscles properly. It is also known as strength training or weight training. This type of training can be very helpful in achieving a healthier body.

Resistance training is usually associated with athletes who have to build up their bodies. Most people would think that when resistance training is done, the body will grow bigger. Actually it will not. Resistance training is simply about increasing the strength of the body, not its size.

Actually, this can be practiced by anyone. It basically builds and tones the muscle to give the body a better look. This type of training program is even advisable for older people, using standing free-weight resistance or moderate-intensity, seated machine training.

How Does Resistance Training Work?

A resistance training program will include the use of various exercise equipment and machines, like the bench press, dumbbell or barbell. When the equipment is used, the muscles of the body will be working against the weight. The cells of the body will then adapt to the extra weight. This will result in hypertrophy, or the enlarging and increasing of the nerve cells, to help in muscle contraction.

Before doing any resistance training, it is best to consult first with a doctor. Medical supervision is especially important for people who have medical conditions or are overweight. This kind of training is not something that you can explore on your own. You have to know the proper equipment for the needs of your body. The body must also be conditioned first before increasing weight.

Resistance training can also be done without resorting to equipment. Doing push-ups is one good example. This type of exercise can be done just about anywhere with enough space for you to move. Since a person is using their own body weight, those who are a bit tight in their budget can still do resistance training.

What Are the Benefits of Resistance Training?

1. Increased Bone Mineral Density
Bones are constantly remodeling, meaning the tissues break down at the same time they build up. The peak of remodeling takes place during puberty. However, as a person ages, there may be problems with bone mineral density as the remodeling may not be as active. This is especially a problem for post-menopausal women.

Bone mineral density is usually supported by hormones. To address the problem of not having enough hormones to maintain bone mineral density, physical activity is the next best option. Resistance training is one physical activity that can address this.

2. Increased Strength
Strong bones and strong muscles will be developed as you perform a resistance training program.

3. Increase the Range of Activities
When your body is strong enough to carry some considerable weight, then you will also be capable of doing more strenuous activities. You are less likely to feel sluggish and lazy, and you can live a more active lifestyle.

4. Reduce Body Fat
Resistance training will definitely give the body necessary exercise, and get rid of unhealthy excess fat. Body tone will definitely improve. In addition, expect to look better, and to be leaner.

5. Improve the Lives of the Elderly
For the elderly, a resistance training program will help to improve their health and to decrease some of the risks brought about by age. They can be more independent for longer, without needing to rely on other people for simple things. Being able to remain more active will also decrease the overall risk of injuries.

6. Improve Heart Condition
Regularly doing resistance training can result in a lower resting heart rate and lower blood pressure, especially after exercise. The risk of heart diseases is reduced by a considerable amount.

This kind of training, however, must be done properly. It requires commitment and consistency. It will have to be done on a regular basis, following a schedule that a doctor or the physical trainer would recommend. If done incorrectly, the benefits of the program may not be realized, and it can even result in injury.

The key here is to just take your time. Do things one step at a time, correctly. As your body condition improves, then move on to more challenging tasks. The strength of the body and its overall look are at stake.  But by properly following your program, resistance training can have many benefits that can last a lifetime.