Along with the other benefits of getting in shape – increased self-confidence, improved mood, longevity, and health – weight training has benefits of its own. While looking good in a bathing suit is great, there are even more reasons to get toned.
Lifting weights builds muscles that can help you loose weight. Muscles burn more calories than fat because muscle is more metabolically active than fat, even when you’re standing around and even while you sleep. In short, muscles are calorie-hungry in general and at all times burn more calories than does fat.
The benefits of building strong bones
Weight-bearing exercise increases bone density. This is especially important as we get older because bone density, which increases until we’re about 30 years old, begins to decrease after that age.
Weight-bearing exercise helps prevent osteoporosis, a progressive decrease in bone density that weakens bones and makes them more likely to fracture.
It’s much easier to prevent osteoporosis than to treat it. This disease affects millions of people, especially older women. Even if you are a healthy male, keep reading. Twenty percent of the victims of osteoporosis are men. And if you’re an older adult, strength training can help you remain independent. As you get stronger, you increase your ability to move around and reduce your chances of failig. Also, building bone density helps prevent hip and spinal fractures and other problems that can develop with age.
Lift weights to improve posture
Strong back muscles lead to better posture and fewer lover back problems. Muscle building increases power and strength, making you more confident in all aspects of your life.
Many athletes include weight training in their fitness routine to improve their performance and to build strength that prevents their chances of injury.
I’ve been weight training regularly since beginning of my high school studies and can tell, that consistency and intensity are the keys to lean, healthy, solid body. I’m north California surfer, where waves get sometimes bigger that I can handle. While keeping strong body by lifting weights, I’ve been able to manage my falls on steep waves without injury.