We are all aware that exercise is necessary for supporting our overall health. Research points to greater benefits when we prioritize not just aerobic exercise but also incorporating strength training to improve longevity and mortality.
Why does lifting heavy weights help lower our risk factors for heart disease, diabetes, and premature aging?
- Weight training increases our overall muscle mass - thereby improving our metabolism making us more efficient fat burners even when we are at rest.
- Weightlifting helps improve our overall bone mineral density, preventing age-related conditions like osteoporosis.
- Building up our muscles improves our overall stability and balance which prevents our risks for falls and fractures.
- Lifting supports our mental health. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, natural mood enhancers. Strength training can also help increase serotonin levels which also supports a healthy mood.
- Building our muscle mass supports a healthy inflammatory response. Muscles are a beneficial organ and produce anti-inflammatory molecules (myokines) to keep our bodily inflammation and immune system in check. Exercise helps produce more of these molecules.
- Strength training can help lower your blood pressure and improve insulin sensitivity - reducing your risk for chronic diseases.
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Building muscles improves overall stamina and endurance so you are able to continue performing everyday functions.
The benefits of lifting heavy weights and building muscle mass are endless. Not only does it improve our body confidence it helps support our metabolism, burn fat when we are sleeping, and balance bodily inflammation, decreasing our risk factors for chronic diseases.
If you’re not already integrating a weekly lifting routine, get started!
