If you’re like most people, you probably think of strength training as something that only athletes or bodybuilders do. But the truth is, strength training is beneficial for everyone, no matter what their fitness level may be. In fact, research shows that strength training can help improve your overall health, reduce your risk of injuries, and even help you live longer.
So, what exactly is strength training? Strength training is any type of exercise that uses resistance to build muscle and bone density. This can be done with free weights, weight machines, or even your own body weight. And it’s not just about lifting heavy weights — there are many different ways to train for strength, from low-weight/high-rep sets to more traditional heavy lifting.
No matter how you choose to strength train, the benefits are clear. So, if you’re looking to improve your health and quality of life, there’s no excuse not to give it a try.
Here are a few of the most common methods of strength training:
Weightlifting. Weightlifting is the most traditional form of strength training. It involves lifting heavy weights to build muscle and strength. If you’re new to weightlifting, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the amount of weight you’re lifting.
Bodyweight training. Bodyweight training is a type of strength training that uses your own body weight as resistance. This can be done through exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, and squats. Bodyweight training is a great option if you’re new to strength training or if you don’t have access to weights.
Resistance bands. Resistance bands are a type of exercise equipment that provides resistance when stretched. They come in different levels of resistance, so you can choose the level that’s right for you. Resistance bands are a great option for people who want to strength train at home without any equipment.
Pilates. Pilates is a type of exercise that uses controlled movements to build strength. It’s often done with the help of a Pilates reformer, which is a type of exercise equipment. Pilates is a great option if you’re looking for a low-impact form of strength training.
Yoga. Yoga is another type of exercise that uses controlled movements to build strength. However, yoga also focuses on flexibility and mindfulness. So, if you’re looking for a mind-body approach to strength training, yoga may be a good option for you.
Strength training will help you look, feel, and age better, and it’s suitable for everyone — not just muscle-beach meatheads and elite athletes. You don’t need any special equipment or knowledge to start; you can just get on the ground right now and do a press-up or a sit-up. And if you don’t even know how to do that, a quick YouTube search will show you everything you need to know. Or, you could take it one step further and join a gym, yoga class, or Pilates group.
