Long-Term Health. Okay, so you might not be hitting the weights regularly, and resistance bands aren’t exactly your idea of a good time. But hey, it’s time to rethink that stance.
Get Off the Couch and Get Strong
Strength training, whether it’s lifting weights, using resistance bands, or just doing bodyweight exercises, is like a secret weapon for your long-term health. It’s not just about looking swole; it’s about boosting muscle strength, endurance, and bone density. The cool part? It can also lower the risk of falls and fractures as you get older, promoting independent living. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends adults to do muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week, hitting all major muscle groups at a moderate or greater intensity.
Yet, here’s the kicker: only around 30.2% of Americans are actually following these guidelines, according to a 2017 data analysis. Shockingly, close to 60% admitted they don’t do any strength training at all. Talk about dropping the ball.
And get this – where you live matters. A 2020 analysis of National Health Interview Survey data spilled the beans. Folks in big cities and the Western US are more likely to meet the CDC’s physical activity guidelines than those in quieter areas and other regions.
But before you dismiss it, let’s chat with Dr. Tommy Lundberg, an exercise researcher from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and the brain behind “The Physiology of Resistance Training.”
Why Strength Training is Your Health BFF According to Dr. Lundberg
Dr. Lundberg’s Take on the Perks:
- Improved Blood Glucose Control: Especially crucial if you’re dealing with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance.
- Feeling Better: It’s not just about the muscles; it can actually reduce stress levels. Who doesn’t want that?
- Better Sleep: Catching more Zs? Yes, please!
- Aging Gracefully: It helps you function better as the years tick by, keeping you spry and active.
- Reduced Risk of Falls: Because nobody wants to be the person who trips over their own two feet.
Age is Just a Number, But Strength Training is Essential:
Dr. Lundberg isn’t pulling any punches. He recommends both aerobic and resistance training for all ages, but for those 65 and above, strength training is the real MVP. As we age, our muscles start waving goodbye, and that’s where resistance training steps in. Sarcopenia, the muscle loss party that kicks off in our golden years, can be slowed down or even reversed with a solid strength training routine. No pill or diet plan can offer the same perks.
Lounging Around? Not Anymore:
Sure, we might be more glued to our screens today, but guess what? Life expectancy is on the up and up. With more elderly folks around, building muscle becomes crucial not just for daily activities but also to ease the strain on our healthcare system.
Strength Training Beyond the Gym:
Dr. Lundberg spills the beans on something we might not have considered – strength training isn’t just for gym buffs. It’s a key player in many sports. Whether you’re aiming for a slam dunk or need to sprint like a pro, strength training’s got your back. Oh, and it can even reduce the risk of injuries in sports like soccer.
So there you have it – the lowdown on why strength training is like the superhero of workouts. It’s not just about the flexing; it’s about living your best, healthiest life. Time to grab those dumbbells!
