Looking to boost your health and longevity? Strength training may be just what you need. This workout does more than build muscle mass; it improves cardiovascular health, bone health and even mental wellness. Whether you’re a seasoned gym member or new to the fitness world, you can enjoy the unique benefits of strength training. Let’s take a closer look at what strength training is, its effects and where to find personalized weight lifting in South Tampa.
What Is Strength Training?
Strength training, also known as resistance or weight training, is a physical exercise designed to improve muscle strength and endurance. There are several ways to engage in strength training, including the following:
- Weight lifting: The most common type of strength training involves lifting weights. These may include dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells and weight plates.
- Resistance machines: These machines use adjustable weights to target different muscle groups.
- Bodyweight exercises: If you don’t have tools available, you can practice strength training using your own body. Many common exercises, including push-ups, squats and lunges, help build strength.
It’s Not Just About Building Muscle: The Benefits of Strength Training
While strength training is usually associated with building muscle, it actually offers a wide range of holistic health benefits. Here are eight top benefits of weight training:
- Increased muscle mass: Strength training helps build your muscle fibers, which increases your overall muscle mass. Not only does this affect cosmetic appearance, but it also improves performance in physical activities.
- Better bone health: Over time, strength training encourages bone growth and increases bone density. This helps prevent osteoporosis and fractures, which are common conditions in older adults.
- Improved metabolism: Increased muscle mass is linked to a higher resting metabolic rate. This means that you burn more calories when resting.
- Enhanced blood sugar control: Did you know that strength training helps keep blood sugar levels in check? This benefit is especially helpful for those with insulin sensitivity or diabetes.
- Reduced injury risk: Weight training strengthens your muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as your joints. This improves coordination and reduces the risk of injury or falling.
- Improved mental wellness: In addition to physical benefits, strength training can improve mental wellness. Studies show that many types of exercise (including weight training) boost mood and reduce depression and anxiety symptoms.
- Increased cardiovascular wellness: Believe it or not, strength training benefits your heart health. It accomplishes this by lowering blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels, both of which are linked to heart disease. Strength training also builds lean muscle mass, which helps reduce pressure on your arteries and encourages cardiovascular function.
- Longevity: Many people practice strength training for longevity. By improving physical and mental function, this workout reduces the risk of health problems, helps ensure independence and promotes a longer, happier life.
Everyday Habits for a Long Life
If you’re looking for ways to lengthen your lifespan, strength training is a great choice. For the best results, it should be combined with the following:
- Balanced diet: A healthy, balanced diet encourages muscle repair and makes strength training more effective.
- Quality sleep: In order to function properly, your body needs sleep. Adults should aim for at least seven to nine hours of sleep per night.
- Stress management: Chronic, excessive stress negatively impacts both mental and physical well-being. Practices such as yoga and meditation can help manage stress levels.
- Social connections: Studies show that social isolation is linked to a shorter lifespan.
- Healthy habits: Avoid or limit unhealthy substances, such as alcohol and tobacco.
Start Your Tampa Strength Training Journey at Bayshore Fit
There’s no doubt that strength training has a serious impact on health and longevity—especially when combined with healthy lifestyle habits. At Bayshore Fit, we offer high-quality weight lifting programs designed to elevate your health and wellness. After considering your unique needs and abilities, our experienced trainers will design a versatile, personalized program. As your strength journey evolves, your plan will evolve with it, helping ensure you meet your fitness goals.
Ready to experience the benefits of strength training? Explore memberships at Bayshore Fit today!