When some women categorically say they won’t lift weights because they don’t want to bulk up, I encourage them to try it out first.
These women don’t know the benefits they are missing out on because they think only cardio will help them lose weight.
Lifting weights might be one of the best ways to achieve your weight loss goals and improve your health and stamina at the same time.
Below are 10 benefits of strength training that you need to know as you begin your weight loss journey:
Improves cardiovascular health
Strength training can improve heart health because they reduce excess abdominal fat. This kind of fat is also known as visceral fat which causes serious health damage if it’s not controlled.
Controls blood sugar levels
Strength training improves your body’s functioning to pick up a lot more glucose from the blood and into muscle, thereby decreasing blood sugar levels.
Lowers abdominal fat
When you lift weights, you not only burn calories, but increase lean muscle mass, which stimulates your metabolism. Muscle mass is a major determiner of the number of calories your body burns per day to sustain physical functions.
Reduces cancer risk
Abdominal fat not only increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes, but it can also increase cancer development. Strength training prevents against cancer forming cells.
Improves body image
When you work out consistently and see results, you start looking and feeling better about your body. Strength training improves your mental health and energy levels.
Boosts brain health
Lifting weights can improve brain power. The idea is to get blood flowing. This is because high intensity strength training increases the flow of blood, oxygen and other nutrients to the brain. You also feel lights afterwards.
Improves flexibility
When you lift weights, you improve your flexibility. When you take your joints through their full range of motion during strength training, you can increase that range of motion over time and better too.
Improves mental health
Exercise triggers endorphins that makes you feel better, but strength training provides an opportunity to overcome obstacles in a controlled, predictable environment. This way, mental resiliency is increased.
Lowers injury risks
Having a good muscle is important for balance, movement, coordination and prevention of injuries. Weak muscles cause injuries. Lifting weights increase muscle strength and help prevent injuries.
Prevents osteoporosis
If you lift weights consistently, you will have strong bones. Strength training increases bone mineral density. Lifting weights provides your bones with the needed minerals to keep them strong. This way, you won’t suffer from bone loss or osteoporosis.
I lifted weights today and I felt so good afterwards. You should incorporate weight lifting into your routine for all round health improvement.
Weight lifting also prolongs your life. So what are you waiting for? Grab some weights today and exercise your muscles for maximum health benefits.