For many, weight training calls to mind bodybuilders pumping iron in pursuit of beefy biceps and bulging pecs. But experts say it’s well past time to discard those antiquated notions of what resistance training can do for your physique and health. Modern exercise science shows that working with weights—whether that weight is a light dumbbell or your own body—may be the best course of action for those fighting Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, and other life altering/threatening conditions. Through a process known as bone remodeling, strength training stimulates the development of bone osteoblasts, creating the cells that build bones back up. While you can achieve some of these bone benefits through aerobic exercise, especially in your lower body, resistance training is really the best way to maintain and enhance total-body bone strength. Research has also shown that resistance training can improve insulin sensitivity among people who have, or are at risk of developing Type II Diabetes. Controlling Insulin swings as well as helping maintain a positive body weight ratio. (Muscle = Positive, Fat = Negative). Muscle uses glucose blood sugars, which come from fat stores for energy, which in turns helps the body convert sugars into muscles rather than more or larger fat stores throughout the body. During a resistance training workout your muscles are rapidly using glucose to restore and replenish the muscles you are using. This process will continue for hours and even days after the workout is over. Compared to a standard cardiovascular workout, I.E. running or walking, The body will only burn off glucose stores (fat cells) during the workout, and as the heart rate returns to normal. Which is generally a short lived process compared to post strength training. For anyone at risk for metabolic conditions, Type II Diabetes, or also high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels and other symptoms of metabolic syndrome—strength training is among the most-effective remedies. Check out Part II of this blog next week as we continue to discuss the benefits of strength training for your health and longevity. Click here to try one of our fitness classes for FREE today!
