What Is Resistance Training and What Are Its Benefits?

Let’s Define Resistance Training

Resistance training (also called strength training or weight training) is the use of resistance to muscular contraction to build the strength, anaerobic endurance and size of skeletal muscles.

Resistance training is based on the principle that muscles of the body will work to overcome a resistance force when they are required to do so. When you partake in resistance training repeatedly and consistently, your muscles become stronger.

A well-rounded fitness program includes strength training to improve bone, joint function, bone density, muscle, tendon and ligament strength, as well as aerobic exercise to improve your heart and lung fitness, flexibility and balance exercises.

Examples of Resistance Training:

Free weights: Such as dumbbells, Plates, kettle bells and Barbells.

Resistance Machines: Machinery with adjustable seats and weights to ensure correct form and posture.

Resistance Bands: Big rubber bands that provide continuous resistance throughout a movement.

Yourself: Your own bodyweight can be used as a form of resistance for exercises such as Squats, Chin-ups and Push-ups.

How can implementing Resistance training into your programme benefit you?

There are both physical and mental health benefits you can gain through resistance training such as:

  • improved muscle strength and tone – to protect your joints from injury.
  • maintaining flexibility and balance, which can help you remain independent as you age.
  • weight management and increased muscle-to-fat ratio – as you gain muscle, your body burns more kilojoules when at rest.
  • may help reduce or prevent cognitive decline in older people.
  • greater stamina – as you grow stronger, you won’t get tired as easily.
  • prevention or control of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, back pain, depression and obesity.
  • pain management.
  • improved mobility and balance.
  • improved posture.
  • decreased risk of injury.
  • increased bone density and strength and reduced risk of osteoporosis.
  • improved sense of well being – resistance training may boost your self-confidence, improve your body image and your mood.
  • a better night’s sleep and avoidance of insomnia.
  • increased self-esteem.
  • enhanced performance of everyday tasks.

If you would like to add a form of resistance training into your gym programme please contact one of the team at reception who will specifically design it to cater your every need!