Strength training helps improve athletic performance in sports that require speed, power, and strength
Manisha Koirala is unstoppable. The 54-year-old actor who survived stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2012 has now taken up strength and resistance training, which she says has “transformed her life”.
“Strength and resistance training has transformed my life, from building stronger bones and muscles to boosting mental clarity. Being surrounded by inspired people keeps me motivated and sharp, making this journey truly empowering,” she wrote on Instagram.
What is strength training?
Strength training is an important part of an overall fitness program. It helps reduce body fat, increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. According to experts, your lean muscle mass naturally diminishes with age. Strength training can help you preserve and enhance your muscle mass at any age.
Strength training may also help you develop strong bones, manage your weight, and enhance metabolism.
Most people focus on muscular endurance, circuit training, and muscular hypertrophy as part of their strength-training routine, while strength and power training are usually reserved for experienced athletes.
Benefits of strength training
Strength training helps improve your strength and flexibility and lower your risk of injury and falls. A few benefits include:
Makes you stronger
Strength training helps you become stronger. Research says gaining strength allows you to perform daily tasks much easier, such as carrying heavy groceries or running around with your kids.
It also helps improve athletic performance in sports that require speed, power, and strength.
Burns calories
Strength training boosts your metabolism in two ways. Studies say building muscle increases your metabolic rate and they become metabolically more active than fat mass, allowing you to burn more calories at rest. Second, it also increases your metabolic rate after strength-training exercise.
Decreases tummy fat
Fat stored around the abdomen—especially visceral fat—is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases like heart issues, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
Lowers risk of falls
Research shows that all exercise will decrease your risk of falls, but strength training is especially effective at this. A study says strength training in the legs is especially crucial in reducing fall risk.
Fortunately, studies have found that many forms of strength training have been shown to be effective, such as Tai chi, weight training, resistance band, and bodyweight exercises.
Improves heart health
The American Heart Association says regular strength-training exercises can decrease blood pressure. According to studies, strength training also lowers total and LDL or bad cholesterol.
Improves mental health
Strength training can also improve your mental health. According to studies, youth aged between 10 and 16 years would observe a significant association between strength training and high self-esteem, physical strength, and physical self-worth if done regularly.
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