Why You Should be Strength Training

It doesn't matter if you're a runner, CrossFitter, amateur birdwatcher or full-time office hero, following a strength program benefits every lifestyle and athletic endeavor. What's more? It's enjoyable, and you'll begin to reap immediate benefits!

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What is strength training? Also known as resistance training, strength training is an exercise that causes muscles to contract against an outside resistance. #gaintrain

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All you need is a resistance, such as your body weight, bands, a barbell or dumbbell. Start with basic, compound movements such as squats, lunges, pressing and pulling and challenge your muscles through progressive overload, which means gradually increasing the intensity or difficulty of the exercises over time.

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Still need convincing?

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Here are my top 3 reasons to start following a strength program:

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1. Strength training makes you stronger. This is an obvious benefit, but getting stronger isn’t just about lifting heavier. An increase in muscle mass transfers to every movement, motion and activity your body partakes in. You will run faster and further, hit the golf ball with more power or simply carry the groceries without any assistance.
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2. Strength training lowers your risk of injury. A resistance program benefits the growth of your muscles and improves the strength of your tendons, ligaments and bones. In turn, you'll begin to correct muscular imbalances, improve your range of motion and move more efficiently.
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3. Strength training improves your quality of life. The positive, long-term results of your hard work undoubtedly boost confidence. They include an increase in strength, a change in body composition and a better quality of life (a longer one, too!). An immediate result? A wave of endorphins, the body's happy hormone.
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Remember, you don't need to make it complicated. Show up, be consistent and do the basics well. Follow a program that suits your current needs and future goals, lift a little more each week, eat well and get enough sleep. If you do these things regularly, you will see some pretty incredible changes in the coming months.

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Unsure where to start in your strength program? Let's have a chat! Send me a message at am@innerfight.com.

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Fun  - Honesty - SIMPLICITY - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - Hard Work

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