December 15, 2017
Let’s start with “lifting weights will make me look bulky and massive”.
Here I will discuss the benefits of lifting weights and why it SHOULD be included in your workout routine.
Fat Loss
Weight training builds muscle, as lean muscle increases so does the metabolism. A higher metabolism mean’s that you will burn more calories throughout the day. Studies show that the average women who strength trains two or three times a week will gain nearly two pounds of muscle and lose around 3.5lbs of fat, that can really add up over a long period of time training. When it comes to weight loss most people embark on a journey of cardiovascular and dieting however strength training can burn just as much if not more fat than cardio.
Lifting Makes Women Masculine!
One of the most annoying myths is the idea that females who train relatively heavy weights will suddenly transform into female equivalent of The Incredible Hulk, reality is as you begin to build muscle your body will start to develop a nice hour glass shape. Though endurance exercise can help you lose weight, that weight comes in the form of both fat and muscle tissue. If you’re losing both fat and muscle, you can lose those lovely curves as well. Strength training can help create and sustain them.
Increased Energy
Resistance training causes an increase in energy expenditure hours after you train. A study published by the National Institute of Health suggest that the chronic increase in energy expenditure, even after a minimal resistance training session, may favourably effect energy balance and fat oxidation. Rather than reaching for that afternoon cuppa, grab a barbell.
Stress Relief
Exercise in general is a great way to manage stress. Researchers have constantly found that those who regularly strength train tend to manage stress better and experience fewer adverse reactions to stressful situations. Physical activity reduces stress by realising endorphins, which is a chemical produced in the brain during times of pain and stress, they also improve your mood and decrease tension. Resistance exercise using weight puts a heavy strain on muscles and can produce more endorphins in a faster period of time than cardio therefore reducing stress levels and improving your mood. So next time you need to blow of some steam, hit the weights!.
Lauren Reilly
Fitness Instructor