Building a Better [Stronger] Body

Last week, a study announced that strength training shows benefits in breast cancer survivors.  Not only does it help these already powerful women, but also provides MANY benefits for the Average Joe.

Weight training can help tone your muscles, increase metabolism, improve your appearance and prevent age-related muscle loss.

Why Strength Train?

Not only will you feel STRONG but here are a few other benefits from pumpin’ iron…

-  Reduces body fat --- who doesn’t want that???

-  Develops strong bones, which decreases the risk of osteoporosis.

-  Good for your HEART!  Helps prevent cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.

-  Increase energy levels…no more 3pm slump!

-  STRESS reliever.

-  Improves mood and overall well-being.

-  You’ll sleep like a baby.

-  Increases stamina and endurance -- you’ll keep going and going and going…

-  Helps prevent injury.

-  Improves balance and flexibility.

I know all of this talk [ladies] has you thinking you will turn into the Incredible Hulk.  However, women are not equipped with the proper hormones (aka testosterone) to make this happen.  Still don’t believe me…click here.

Now that you’re convinced…

Learn the proper technique.  If you aren’t sure of the technique – enlist the help of a personal trainer or another fitness specialist.

Start slowly. If you just beginning, you may find you are only able to lift a few pounds.  Start with a weight you can lift 12-15 repetitions until fatigue.  After a few weeks, try increasing your sets to 2 or 3.

Take time to rest.  To give your muscles time to recover, rest one full day between exercising each specific muscle group. You might choose to work the major muscle groups at a single session two or three times a week — or plan daily sessions for specific muscle groups. For example, on Monday work your arms and shoulders, on Tuesday work your legs, and back to your arms and shoulders on Wednesday.

Alright, now that you’re armed and ready to get lifting…where to start?

Check out our library of videos with step by step instruction from our Fitness Director Adam Martin.