Here's why you should lift weights even if you don't want to be a "muscle person"
I remember when I first walked into the weights section of the gym. My heart began racing as my eyes peered down the long row of dumbbells. I turned around and stared at the cages holding heavy metal bars with weight plates that I was sure I couldn't move.
It can be a daunting experience when you first decide to enter this area of the gym. Especially when it's your first time alone, with little idea of what weight you can pick up and what exercises to do. If you do, you're worried that you might do them wrong, and social media tells you that it's a guaranteed road to injury.
It's reasonable to feel this way when entering this gym area first. In fact, I've been using this section of the gym for over seven years, and there are still times when I feel a little anxious. It's a very normal feeling.
But I want you to not let your fear or worry stop you from trying these exercises. Doing these exercises (also known as resistance training) is essential to a well-rounded fitness routine and has numerous benefits for your health and well-being.
Before I begin detailing these benefits, let's discuss some strategies to help you feel more comfortable in this part of the gym.
Becoming comfortable in the weight training area of the gym
Seek help from a staff member: When I first joined my local Anytime Fitness, the friendly staff greeted me and offered a tour of the facility. They asked if there was anything I needed help with, but I was too new to the experience to really know.
After realising I was uncomfortable with the weight area, I asked a staff member for help.
She took me to the weights and machines and showed me how to use all the essential equipment. She also guided me through some simple dumbbell exercises—incline bench press, shoulder press, bicep curls, dumbbell squats and lunges, and tricep extensions—all with low weight. I truly credit this experience with helping me become more comfortable in the gym. I was shown that it's okay to start with a small weight and how to use the equipment available in my gym. This also made the next tip easier.
Do some self-education: I recognise that not everyone can go to the gym during staffed hours, and we don't all have a gym buddy who can replace the lovely lass who got me started. The next best thing I suggest is doing some self-education.
Now, I don't mean becoming a qualified sports scientist. Instead, find a free beginner training routine based on your goals (keep in mind, all online programs are generic and may not be the most optimal for you, but for now, we're just trying to become comfortable with the weight area), and then seek instructional videos on YouTube that help you understand the basics of the workouts ask of you.
Or, get the best of both worlds: The above tips require you to be available when a team member is and rely on your ability to understand the information you're finding online. Both will help you feel more comfortable in the gym, but you may still have other common fears, like, Is this the right program for me? Am I wasting my time? Am I really getting the health benefits of this?
That's where Life Logic comes in. Not only do you get access to a panel of highly qualified coaches, but everything you're given is based on your epigenetic coding. In other words, the routines you do and the advice provided are based on your genetics and the environmental influences over those genetics that have manifested within you to become the person you are today, right now, in this moment. Life Logic fitness programs are created for your unique hormonal and metabolic preferences to ensure you are getting the optimal workout and bang for your buck. No more guesswork. With guided support, video demonstrations and access to calls with your coaches, you'll never need to question what you're doing or why, so you can truly be comfortable in any area of your fitness journey.
Now that we've discussed ways to feel more comfortable, let's explore why it's worth pushing past that discomfort and heading into the weights area.
The benefits of resistance training
Many associate weight training with bodybuilding or becoming a "muscle person." However, the benefits of resistance training extend far beyond aesthetics.
Whether your goal is overall health, functional fitness, or simply feeling better in your daily life, incorporating weights into your routine can make a significant difference. Let's dive into some key reasons everyone should consider adding weight training to their fitness regimen.
Muscle and Strength Gains (But Not Just for Show)
Remember when I mentioned that weight training isn't just for "muscle people"? While resistance training builds muscle and strength, it's not just about looking buff. These muscle gains also create real-life benefits, like easily carrying groceries or picking up your kids without sweat.
Supercharge Your Metabolism
Another benefit of that muscle you're building is that you become a 24/7 calorie-burning machine. Even when you're lounging on the couch binge-watching your favourite show, your muscles work overtime, burning more calories than if you hadn't lifted weights. If your goal is to lose weight, this could be helpful. It also makes it easier to maintain after you achieve your goals.
Bones of Steel (Well, Almost)
As we age, our bones can feel a little weaker. But weight training keeps your bones strong and sturdy, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and making you less likely to break something if you fall.
Heart Health (No Cardio Machine Required)
I know. When you think of heart health and cardio, you probably picture someone huffing and puffing on a treadmill. But picking up those dumbbells can give your heart a workout, too. It gets your blood pumping and your heart racing, all while you're standing in one spot. It's like multitasking for your body!
Stress and Anxiety Buster
Life can be stressful. But instead of reaching for that comfort food, why not go to the gym? Resistance training is like a mental health boost in disguise. It allows you to focus on something other than your worries, and the physical challenge can be a great way to let off steam. Plus, those post-workout endorphins? They're better than any comfort food. I promise.
Final thought
Remember, you don't need to become a bodybuilder to earn the benefits of a healthy body. Even a couple of sessions per week can make a big difference. So, feel free to enter the weights section next time you're in the gym. Your body (and mind) will thank you!
Author: Christopher Dean
16 October 2024
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