For prior information see:
Emphasis on Safety:
An important focus on weight training is the emphasis that the motions must be performed correctly. It is crucial that one learns the motions for each exercise and perfects the form before moving on to adding weights and resistance. To perform an exercise improperly is to put oneself at risk, as it can lead to any number of muscular and joint problems such as torn ligaments or a strained back. The primary focus of a lift is to work with one's normal range of motion and not try to overextend any part of their body. There are numerous guides and publications online and in print which specify exactly how to perform each particular exercise, but the best way is to view in person and practice until it has been achieved. A good aid to ensure proper form is to hire a personal trainer, as even a few sessions can afford one the chance to learn enough to train without problems.
Long Term Effects of Resistance Training
By maximizing a high volume of work in such a short time there is an energy expenditure on par with that of a steady state run on a treadmill. The key difference is that a person running burns calories merely while they are engaged in such activity as their metabolic rate temporarily speeds up as a result. By contrast, a person utilizing resistance training continues to burn calories for up to 24 hours after the activity has ceased, as the muscles that have been worked require large quantities of energy and nutrients for the body to repair them. Thus, in about the same amount of time, one can double their overall calorie expenditure by switching to resistance training.
The benefits are numerous and include:
- Less stress exerted on the joints than cardio and a lower potential for injury
- Increase in strength and body composition
- Increase in resting metabolic rate (i.e. more calories burned per day)
- Increase in muscle and bone density
- Improved balance and mobility
- Decrease in HDL and blood pressure and increase in circulation
- Significant boost to immune system
- Help in preventing onset of diabetes
- Improvement in overall mood and quality of sleep
- Improvement in aesthetic appearance
Coupled with the success of resistance training in promoting weight loss at a much faster rate than low-intensity cardio, it becomes clear that conventional aerobic training is inferior for both aesthetic purposes as well as overall wellness.
While the positive results of resistance training are evident, aerobic activity is by no means obsolete. The benefits of cardio to the heart and lungs are great, despite the efficiency of other methods for fat loss. Another potential alternative is known as HIIT, or high intensity interval training which utilizes the premises behind weight training and applies them to cardiovascular exercise in an effective manner. An ideal fitness regimen would be to combine aspects of cardio, resistance training, and nutritional dietary practices for a well balanced body and a healthy lifestyle.
Jamil Karim - Jamil Karim is a California local of Indian descent who holds a BA in Philosophy and a prolonged interest in writing and journalism.Among ...
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