by We know that the weightlifting revolution is gathering steam from every nook and corner, which makes one wonder if they should too. Then comes the fear of looking like a bodybuilder lifting those heavy bars and dumbbells. While many people have come to terms with the fact that lifting weights should be a part of their daily exercise, some still strongly believe that it could make them look bulky. Well, it’s time to put the whole argument aside because people who lift weights are not going to make you look like a bodybuilder.
If you still don’t believe us, here are some tests validated by fitness trainer Miten Kakaiya, the founder of Miten Says Fitness. Therefore, weight lifting or resistance training is an important aspect of maintaining overall health and fitness. Read on to learn why weight lifting should be a part of your fitness routine, whether or not you want to be a bodybuilder.
Should you lift weights if you don’t want to be a bodybuilder?
Powerlifting is not limited to bodybuilders. The benefits of lifting weights aren’t just limited to bodybuilders, but extend to people of all ages and fitness levels. It should be part of your exercise routine, Kakaiya explains.
Explaining the various benefits, he adds that lifting weights using external resistance helps strengthen and tone muscles and build stamina. “Resistance can come in various forms, such as dumbbells, bars, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises. Lifting weights is a crucial component of fitness, as it offers several health benefits, including increased muscle mass, bone density, and improved metabolism.”
Know the benefits of lifting weights
Weight lifting offers a host of health benefits, including the following:
1. It helps you build muscle mass
As we age, we tend to lose muscle mass, which often leads to weakness, frailty, and a lack of balance. Studies have shown that lifting weights can have a significant impact on muscle mass. Lifting weights can help maintain and even increase muscle mass, which can lead to better physical function and independence later in life, Kakaiya explains.
Also read: 5 power-packed exercises you can do at home to gain muscle and strength
2. Strengthens the bones
Did you know that our bones reabsorb calcium and phosphate from your bones as you age? This weakens the bones and increases the risk of various diseases such as osteoporosis. A study published in the journal Endocrinology and Metabolism found that resistance training can prevent the risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, lifting weights is also important for improving bone density.
3. Helps lose weight
Resistance training increases your resting metabolic rate, according to a study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology. Resistance training can increase metabolism by increasing muscle mass. “Muscle is a metabolically active tissue, which means it burns more calories at rest than fat. Therefore, increasing muscle mass through weight lifting can lead to an increase in total calorie expenditure, which can be beneficial for weight loss and control,” explains the fitness expert.
Also read: 7 ways to speed up your metabolism to lose weight fast
4. Reduces the risk of various diseases
A study published in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise found that moderate resistance training can reduce the risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In addition, studies have also found that regular exercise can help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Weightlifting Tips
Lifting weights is an essential component of overall fitness and health. Regular resistance training can also lead to significant changes in body composition and physical function. It is a safe and effective exercise when done correctly. Proper form and technique should be emphasized to avoid injury. A qualified fitness trainer can provide guidance on how to lift weights safely and effectively. Beginners should start with lighter weights and gradually increase their weight as their strength and stamina improve. So if you’re looking to improve your overall fitness and health, consider incorporating weight lifting into your exercise routine.
