~ Mike Hanik
You may not be training for the strongest person in the world contest but it is necessary for everyone to have a foundational level of strength. We need a certain level of strength to perform everyday tasks. Imagine not being able to carry your child, climb stairs, or carry the groceries into the house. All of these tasks and many more require use of muscles.
Foundational strength is necessary for everything physical we do. It helps improve everything from daily tasks to athletic performance. Building or maintaining strength is important at any age.
Improved Daily Activities
Muscular strength and endurance allow us to work longer. We do not tire as quickly if our muscles have been trained. Daily tasks like cleaning, carry groceries, and playing with are children are easier when we have good muscular fitness.
Children who work on developing muscular fitness have much more enjoyable physical play experiences. Building strength does not require going to a gym or lifting heavy weights. Many movements that require pushing, pulling, and squatting with just a person’s body weight will build strength. These exercises or activities can be incorporated into fun and creative movements so children learn to enjoy physical activity.
Improved Athletic Performance
Foundational strength is important for anyone wanting to improve their athletic performance. Whether it is an individual or team sport, the more strength a person has the greater their ability to perform at a higher level for a longer period of time. The athlete who spends time developing strength will have an advantage over the athlete who does not dedicate time to develop strength. Strength helps build speed, stability, and mobility if done correctly. These are all important fundamentals for all sports.
Reduced Risk of Injury
Strength and power for the base for everything. Losing strength results in the loss of functional ability which could lead to the increased risk of falls and fractures. Maintaining strength as we age is important for maintaining functional ability. Strength training, if done correctly, reduces the risk for musculoskeletal injuries related to muscle imbalance. Strength training also reduces the risk of low back injuries. Over half of the adults in the United States will suffer low back pain at some point in their lives. It is estimated that Americans spend at least $50 billion each year treating low back pain. People who are sedentary are at the greatest risk of developing low back pain. A few simple strength training exercises done regularly can help reduce the risk of low back pain.
Reduced Risk of Disease
Strength training helps to reduce the risk of diseases like osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes. Not only does regular strength training make muscles stronger, it also helps to strengthen bones. Research shows that strength training increases bone density and reduces the risk of fractures. Post-menopausal women can lose 1-2% of their bone mass each year. Young women should incorporate strength training into their routines to help build strong bones. Older women should also strength train to build and maintain bone density.
It is estimated that by 2020 over half of the adult population in the United States will be pre-diabetic or diabetic. Regular strength training will help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. It is also beneficial in helping people manage their diabetes. A research study found that 16 weeks of strength training produced improvements in glucose control. The results in glucose control were similar to taking diabetes medication but without the risk of side effects.
Decreased Risk of Anxiety and Depression
The previously mentioned study also found that participants in the 16 week strength training program had less depression and were more self-confident. There is new research that shows strength training produces biochemical changes in the brain and the body. These biochemical changes make people feel better.
These are just a few of many reasons why people young and old need to incorporate strength training into their routines. Many exercises can be done at home in minimal space with none or very little equipment. If you want to start a strength training program it is important to spend at least 12-16 weeks developing a base level of strength. We recommend that you start with body weight activities in order to get your body used to the movements before adding external weight. Our foundational strength training program can be done at home in minimal space with no expensive equipment to purchase. Get our program now and start you and your family down the path to better health.
