You’ve hear the saying, “train smarter, not harder.” Sometimes we can get a little too focused on one type of training so that we forget to incorporate variety into our exercise. Cardiovascular work outs are traditionally the most popular types of exercises used to lose weight and garner healthy heart benefits.
However, fitness studies like those found in Balance Magazine show that there are faster ways to get in shape than simply hopping on an exercise bike. Coupling weight training and cardiovascular exercise sessions enable the body to burn calories more efficiently.
Benefits Of Adding Weight Training To A Strictly Aerobic Exercise Regimen
Prolonged cardiovascular work outs greatly improve heart health over sedentary lifestyles, and it seems nothing will replace that type of physical activity. However, adding strategic amounts of resistance to targeted areas builds lean muscle mass in those areas. These newly strengthened muscles soak up calories like thirsty sponges as the body’s metabolism increases. The result is a stronger, leaner looking body achieved without compromising the heart healthbenefits gained from cardiovascular exercise.
Only with proper planning and dedication can one expect to achieve stellar results from a weight training exercise program. According to kinesiologists, there are 11 major muscle groups found throughout the body’s arms, torso, and legs. Strengthening muscles in these groups encourages good posture, prevents injury, and often lessens body aches. Those willing to incorporate effective weight training into their fitness regimen conduct extensive research to determine the right types of exercises for each muscle group.
Some interested in weight training initially consult personal trainers who have extensive knowledge and experience about building lean muscle mass safely. These fitness professionals show novice weight trainers the exact exercises that are right for them and provide tips to improve form. People with knowledge of the right type, form, and frequency of weight training exercisesto perform only need sustained motivation to reach their fitness goals.
Common Myths About Weight Training
Some myths and misunderstandings associated with weight training have kept many from incorporating the practice into their fitness arsenal. Here are some of the common ones that hold people back from gaining a stronger body.
#1 Weight Training Always Creates Ugly, Bulky Muscles
The people with huge, bulky muscles usually work very hard to gain weight by consuming extreme, calorie dense diets and supplements. “It is especially tough for women to gain that type of bulk because naturally low testosterone levels prevents this phenomenon from occurring,” says author Michael Myles.
#2 Weight Training Results In More Gym Injuries
Properly conducted weight training exercises do not normally increase gym injuries. When people perform weight training correctly, their muscles become stronger resulting in fewer injuries in and outside the gym.
#3 Weight Training Negatively Affects Body Flexibility
Weight training actually forces the muscles to loosen up and become more flexible than when the body remains inactive.
Whether one wants to lose weight or just create great muscle tone, weight training is clearly an excellent tool for reaching those fitness goals.