The Benefits Of Resistance Training For Women
If you go to your local gym and have a look around, you will see that the majority of women, especially those over 40 tend to purely concentrate on cardiovascular training.
While this has obvious health benefits, something that is still surprisingly overlooked is resistance training, there are many reasons why women should get involved in resistance training;
Here are some reasons why this kind of training will suit all women, especially those aged 40 and beyond.
Reduces Injury Risk
The obvious results of resistance training is the development of lean muscle mass, but more significant is the strengthening and development of the joints and connective tissues, helping to eliminate problems such as back ache
Lowers Risk Of Osteoporosis
Studies have showed that supplementing with calcium and exercising with weights can help increase spinal bone density by up to 13%
Build Muscle Without The Bulk
Most women are concerned that building muscles usually means increased bulk, yes they will develop increased muscle definition,tone and strength, but because women have around 30% less muscle building hormones (testosterone) than men, they will not generally gain bulk
Reduce Body Fat
Tests and trials have confirmed that using resistance training 3 times a week for 2 months will result in weight loss and increase muscle tone, lean muscle mass, increases the natural fat burning processes, every lb of additional muscle that you develop will burn and additional 40 calories ( on average) per day
Reduce The Risk Of Diabetes And Heart Disease
Exercising with weights has been shown to increase the utilisation of glucose by 23% in just 4 months, it can also help to maintain heart health by lowering blood pressure levels and reducing LDL Cholesterol.
Increase Physical Strength
Increased strength enables you to become more self sufficient and able, even simple household tasks that require strength can generally be carried out easier.
Improved Confidence And Moods
Exercising releases endorphins into the blood stream, this help to improve moods and general well being. A study at Harvard university proved that just ten weeks of resistance training helped reduce the symptoms of clinical depression more than just counselling over the same time period.
