Have you started exercising, running, yoga, walking and then asked this question, do I need to strength train too?
This is a question I get more often than any other in speaking with people who are ready to start a fitness program. To this point, I was mailing a IMpowered Fit Band to a client yesterday and the lady at the mail store asked about it. She said she started running but wanted to be stronger and have better muscles. Her question, will strength training with the band help me? YES.
Here are some other comments that are frequently mentioned so I wanted to share the answers with you.
I love getting this comment. “Weightlifting is dangerous, and I don’t want to get injured,” they say. Lifting weights with personal coaching from an experienced, qualified coach or trainer isn’t dangerous and doesn’t get you injured. Actually, being weak is dangerous and gets you injured.
“I don’t want to get bulky.” Adding lean mass is by far the most difficult training goal to achieve. Even if you’re TRYING to get bulky from weightlifting, it’s hard. Tip – To get lean or stay lean and strong, keep your reps over 12 or on a timed circuit with manageable weight or IMpowered Fit Band, and you will see amazing strength gains with quality, not bulky, muscle improvements.
And more importantly, Not exercising enough and eating too much? Now, that’ll make you bulky.
“I just want to lose weight, I don’t need to get strong.” Resistance training at least 1-2 times a week is one of the first things we recommend to clients who want to lose weight and fat. Why? Because it’s scientifically proven to work. Also, because relative strength is one of the most important indicators of health and longevity as we age.
Remember this, muscle BURNS fat, period! Weak, small, inefficient muscle doesn’t burn as much fat.
Think of it like a car, the big strong V8 SUV burns a lot of gas (calories for your comparison), but the small engine cars burn very little. You want to be the V8 SUV in this example. As a side note, why wouldn’t you want to be stronger and more able to live a high-quality life?
Don’t get kidnapped by the “cardio caravan” that’s making endless, pointless loops around most gyms. Cardio has tons of health benefits, but needs its partner….strength training for a balanced and efficient body.
Final Big Tip — Improve your overall health and life with strength training. Seek out a coach and a program that offers safe, well-designed, strength & conditioning for your total health benefits. You’ll be happier and healthier as a result. Isn’t that our end goal? Happy healthy life?
