What is strength and resistance training?

Strength and resistance training is exercising your body against any type of force. Lifting something heavy, resisting against or movements, using just your own body to increase muscle mass, strength or endurance.

Its about putting your body under some kind of force to encourage your muscles to contract. Depending on how much force will depend on the contraction of the muscle. There are many types of strength training and resistance training and which one you do will depend on your goal.

For example an athlete who wants to run faster would not complete the same training as someone who wants to compete in a body building competition or someone who wants to gain a healthy looking physique. (Tone up)

The fact that strength and resistance training is so broad makes it an ideal option for anyone who wants to change their body. It is suitable for any ability, any age and any fitness level. The training itself is ideal for progression. Which means it doesn't matter how big, fast or strong you get you never exceed the training.

You can also switch up the training meaning it will never get boring or repetitive. 

What are the benefits?

• Increased muscle mass. (Muscle hypertrophy) Depending on your goal and your training will determine your result. Everyone has advantages of having increased muscle mass. It's ideal for adults of any age.
• Stronger bones. More beneficial for older adults as bone formation slows down and even more so for women as they enter the menopause stage of life. The stresses added to bones during strength training can ensure the bones cells continue to form at a healthy rate
• Increased mobility and flexibility. Strength training can increase your body's range of motion.
• Weight control. Decreases body fat. Training means you burn more calories even after the workout has finished. Also by having more muscle mass your body burns more calories even when resting.
• Helps manage health problems. Strength training can help reduce your risk of diseases, some cancers and can help your body regulate it's blood sugar levels. It can also promote good heart health and decrease blood pressure, lower cholesterol and improve circulation.
• Lower your risk of injury by strengthening joints, ligaments and tendons. It will also help with muscular imbalances along with strengthening your core, meaning lifting in everyday activities will help take the load from your lower back.
• Boosts your mood. This benefit is usually an instant one due to released endorphins. However exercising regularly can also help with anxiety and depression due to the regular mood uplift.
• Increased energy. You may find due to the way the body responds to strength training your metabolism will speed up and your body will become more efficient at burning calories and producing energy.
• Improves brain health. Strength training exercising can help brain function and reduce age related cognitive decline.
• Increased quality of life. Due to the benefits you gain through physical and mental well being. You become stronger and reduce the risks of diseases along with maintaining a healthy weight and body.