And experts agree: Weight training has some incredible benefits.
But what are the real deal benefits of weight training?
And should you try it if you’re already happy with your current workout routine?
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Here are nearly a dozen reasons that’ll convince you to pick up thoseheavy dumbbells.
Defines Muscles
Want powerful, defined muscles?
“So, lifting heavier has the potential to make [them] more defined.”
Strength training may have a reputation of making you “bulk up,“but it’s not true.
To seriously gain size, these individuals would pretty much need to live in the weight room.
Improves Bone Health
Weight lifting doesn’t only train your muscles; it trains your bones.
When you perform a curl, for example, your muscles tug on your arm’s bones.
Over time, your bones become stronger and denser.
Are you burning extra calories post-workoutplusbuilding muscle?
It may sound too good to be true, but it’s actually backed up by research.
Meanwhile, the adults who did weight training maintained muscle mass while losing fat.
This suggests that while aerobic exercise burns both fat and muscle, weight lifting burns almost exclusively fat.
ICYDK, there is more than one classification of body fat.
So TL;DR: Weight training can improve your cardiovascular health by preventing an excess of visceral fat.
You may burn more caloriesduringyour one-hour cardio class than you would be lifting weights for an hour.
“The more muscle you have, the more energy your body expends.
And this could be especially beneficial depending on your goals.
This particular benefit of weight training has a big payoff.
Prevents Injury
Achy hips andsore kneesdon’t have to be a staple of your morning run.
So go ahead, squat low.
Your knees will thank you.
“Proper strength training is actually the solution to joint issues,” says Perkins.
The keyword here is “full-range,” notes Sinkler.
Boosts Heart Health
Cardiovascular exercise isn’t the only exercise that’s, well, cardiovascular.
In fact, weight training can up your heart health, too.
That’s as good as if not better than the benefits associated with most blood pressure pills.
Makes You Feel Empowered
Throwing around some serious iron doesn’t just empower people in the movies.
Your strength will not only show in your body but also in your attitude.
By constantly challenging yourself to do things you never thought possible, your confidence grows.
