Unlock your strength!
08thJun 2023 • 05 Min and 47 Sec
Engaging in strength training, repairs, rebuilds, and strengthens your body for remarkable transformation. So keep pushing, keep challenging yourself, and embrace the strength within you.
Transcript
We are all mortals who want to improve our health and well-being with simple things without hassle, but what is the right advice? Is it Trying Turmeric? Or Befriending Nature? Or Switching to whole fruits? Welcome to the Optimists podcast, I’m Dr Priyanka, and this is “One Simple Thing.” Here you will learn just one thing to improve your health in ways you might not expect.
In today’s podcast, let’s dive deep into the world of fitness and embark on an exciting journey into the realm of strength training. Get ready to discover the fascinating science behind building strength and uncover the incredible benefits that await you. So, let’s dive in!
To truly appreciate the power of strength training, it’s essential to understand the physiological changes that occur within our bodies. When we engage in resistance exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight training, our muscles get subjected to stress. This stress causes micro-tears in the muscle fibres, leading to muscle protein synthesis.
Muscle protein synthesis, or MPS, is where the magic happens. Our body responds to these micro-tears by repairing and rebuilding the muscle fibres, making them stronger and more resilient.
Through a phenomenon known as hypertrophy, our muscle fibres increase in size, resulting in greater strength and power. So, the next time you pick up those dumbbells, remember that you’re setting off a remarkable chain of events within your body.
And let’s remember the benefits of strength training beyond muscle growth. Did you know that regular strength training can significantly boost your metabolism? It’s true! As you build lean muscle mass, your body becomes more metabolically active, meaning you burn more calories even at rest; this can be a game-changer for weight management and achieving that toned physique.
Remember, Strength training is not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality too. As we age, we lose muscle mass and bone density. But fear not! Strength training can be your secret weapon against the effects of ageing.
And let’s not underestimate the mental benefits of strength training. When we exercise, our bodies release endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that boost our mood and reduce stress. Strength training has been shown to positively impact mental health, alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. It’s a natural and empowering way to enhance your overall well-being.
Let’s explore some practical tips for incorporating strength training into your fitness routine. Firstly, it’s important to establish clear goals. What are you aiming to achieve? Whether building muscle, increasing strength, or improving athletic performance, having a specific target in mind will guide your training and keep you motivated.
Once you’ve set your goals, it’s time to create a well-rounded strength training program. Focus on compound exercises; think squats, deadlifts, lunges, and push-ups. They’re the heavy hitters that yield tremendous results.
Our bodies naturally adapt to the stress we place upon them, so gradually increasing the intensity of your workout is essential; this can be achieved by adding more weight, increasing repetitions, or shortening rest periods. The key is to push your limits and continually keep your muscles guessing.
And speaking of limits, it’s crucial to prioritize proper form and technique. If you need clarification on a particular exercise, seek guidance from a knowledgeable fitness professional.
Let’s also remember the importance of recovery. Our bodies need time to rest and repair. Make sure to have rest days in your training schedule and listen to your body’s signals. If you’re feeling overly tired or experiencing pain, leap back and allow yourself to recover. During these periods of rest, our muscles grow and become stronger.