Have you ever judged yourself for lifting lighter weights? Do you believe that lifting heavy is the only way to see benefits? Think again. According to a new study, you can see the same benefits and changes in your body, by lifting lighter weights and this includes fitness bands. Although lighter weights are associated with building endurance—and not so much strength—there are plenty of reasons why lifting lighter weights may actually be better for your body.
Here are some powerful benefits you may see opting for a lighter weight:
1. Better Strength and Endurance
According to a study from McMaster University, researchers discovered “no significant difference in strength” comparing lifting light or heavier weights. What they did find was people got stronger and bigger muscles—when they went to failure (the point where you can’t lift anymore). Although it may take a little bit longer to fatigue using lighter weights, the effort could lead to greater strength, muscle endurance, and muscle growth.
2. Better Range of Motion
The amount of movement around a specific joint or body part—often called range-of-motion–is very important for building stronger, more defined muscles. Lifting heavier may shorten your range-of-motion and reduce the amount of strength you can expect to see; however, using lighter weights may improve your flexibility, therefore allowing the muscle to move through the entire range-of-motion easier, giving you better results.
3. Risk for Injury Decreases
Lifting heavy may increase your risk for injury—since you’re placing a heavier load on smaller muscles and connective tissue that may not be ready for it. The risk for injury decreases using lighter weights—thanks, in part, to better form and lifting techniques and not using supporting muscles (back, legs, shoulders), to lift the weights.
4. Everyday Tasks Become Easier
Lifting lighter weights may make it easier to do everyday tasks. Since light weights focus more on building endurance, you may find it easier to carry in groceries, garden, walking and running, hiking, or even just playing with your kids. Although most people believe lifting heavy weights is the only way to build stronger muscles, it may not be. Lifting lighter weights may be just as effective at building both strength and endurance—and could give you more benefits than lifting heavier.
In fact, lifting lighter weights could build more strength and endurance, improve your range-of-motion, decrease the risk for injury from lifting, and make doing everyday tasks a little bit easier.
So, no need to lift heavy to see changes in your body. Those 5 or 10 pounds dumbbells may be just as beneficial.
Just be consistent and give it your 100% every time.
