Recent Fit Tips

Strength

strength

noun. The quality or state of being strong; bodily or muscular power; vigor

Personal fitness training has long been associated with training in the gym with weights and machines in an effort to get “big” or “buff.” Many men don’t think they need the assistance of a personal trainer because they already know how to work out in the gym – they may have been in athletics in high school or college and are relatively familiar with the training systems used in their corresponding sport. Many women feel they don’t need or want to do any strength training because they fear getting “too big” or “bulky.”

The thing is, strength training is an important component of physical fitness, no matter what your gender or age! There are many reasons to include strength training in your weekly fitness program—full articles have been written on the topic, which we don’t have space for here—so here are a few great reasons to highlight:

woman lifting weights

First, strength training increases the body’s metabolic rate (yes, that means your metabolism is *boosted*), which in turn causes your body to burn more calories throughout the day. That’s a good thing! Weight loss comes from burning more calories than you take in on a daily basis…so weight training helps you by keeping those metabolism fires burning up calories.

Second, studies have clearly proven that consistent strength training can increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Just because you’re aging does not mean you have to grow frail and brittle!

Third, strength training will lead to improved balance, flexibility, mobility and stability. Stronger and more resilient muscles improve your balance, which means more comfortable living and fewer falls or accients.

Fourth, participation in consistent strength training activities has a wide variety of affiliated health benefits, including decreasing cholesterol and lowering your blood pressure.

Finally, everyone can benefit from being stronger. We can work harder, we can play more, we can workout longer, and we can be more alive.

Strength training does not necessarily mean bodybuilding training. Everyone has their own goals, whether it is to fit into a smaller pant size, or be able to wear a swim suit without jiggling…and regular training with weights and resistance is the best way for you to tone up and build that healthy lean muscle mass.

Melanie will create a program that is designed just for you and your goals, and she will ensure that you develop outstanding technique and a supreme level of comfort with strength and resistance training, so that you are capable and confident in the weight room, on the gym floor, and in life.