What are the benefits of weightlifting?

Most people today, especially women, refuse to do weightlifting because they think weightlifting will make their bodies look like man. If you think like that, I have to tell you – that is simply not true! First of all, the hormones of man and woman are different. Testosterone plays a major role in muscular development. And because women have very little of this hormone, they tend not to "bulk-up" with weight training.

Did you know that resistance exercise, also called strength training, just like weight training and weight lifting, has some great effects on your musculoskeletal system? It will contribute to the maintenance of functional abilities, and prevents osteoporosis, sarcopeni, lower-back pain, and other similar disabilities.

So, what are some of the benefits of weightlifting? Well, weightlifting contributes to muscle conditioning, which is important for the overall stability and strength of your body. If it is well maintained, it will be beneficial until the end of life. Also, muscle conditioning is good for your bones because bones grow stronger and denser with stresses put on the muscles around them.

What’s more important - weight lifting will make your muscles, connective tissues and tendons stronger!

The way you sit and stand are influenced by the health of a network of neck, shoulder, back, hip and abdominal muscles. Stronger muscles can help you stand and sit straighter and more comfortably. You may notice improved balance and stability.

Your ability to handle stress will drastically improve as you begin to notice the positive physical changes in your body and develop a regular exercise routine. However, there are many more health benefits of weight training: it will allow you to sleep better, i.e. fall asleep quicker and sleep deeper. Clinical studies have shown regular exercise to be one of the 3 best tools for effective stress management!

Just like most form of exercises, weightlifting will raise the metabolism, thus causing your body to burn more calories. This will help you maintain your desirable weight. Keep in mind that your overall weight might not change, but you will gain muscle and lose fat. So, over time you should notice decreases in waist measurements and body fat measurement.

Remember the saying “something is better than nothing.”? I suggest you start improving your health now. A little start like lifting those grocery bags and rocking your baby to sleep may mean a decrease on your risk of muscle loss on later years.

If you would like to make weightlifting a daily part of your life, please consult with your doctor first. Happy weightlifting!