Strength Training: My Transformational Journey to a Stronger, Healthier Me

Jack asked "What's your favorite type of exercise, and why?"

Hey, Jack,

My favorite? Well, it’s Strength Training, with weights, of course.

I used to be overweight, being sedentary all day. But right before COVID, my wife and I picked up strength training at the gym. This amazing fitness modality has been a game-changer for us. And sure, I'm happy to spill the beans on why I'm completely hooked on it.

Strength Training: A Transformational Journey

Strength training isn't just about pumping iron and getting those muscles popping; it's about transforming my entire lifestyle. As we age, our bones tend to play tricks on us, losing about 1% of their mass every year after 40 (1) (Yes, I’m over 40. Nearing 50, actually). But strength training steps in like a wise old mentor, telling my bones, "Hey, let's get you stronger!" It's like a secret weapon against fractures and osteoporosis, giving me a solid foundation to stand on.

Metabolic Magic: Unleashing the Fat-Burning Machine

Strength training is the unsung hero of my metabolism. It builds muscle, and guess what? Muscles are the speed demons of burning calories (2). Even when I’m resting, my muscles continue to burn calories, keeping my metabolism revved up. It's like having a personal assistant for burning calories, even when I’m Netflix and chilling. And I wasn’t exaggerating when I said this afterburn effect is the No. 1 reason I got hyped up and hooked on with strength training.

Taming the Stubborn Abdominal Fat

Strength training is my warrior against that stubborn abdominal fat. It's not just about looking good in the mirror - though I also enjoy the occasional self-admiration in front of the mirror (wink!) - it’s also about reducing my risk of heart disease and diabetes (3) too. A strong body isn't just for show; it's my fortress against chronic diseases.

Mental Perks: Lifting My Mood

Let's not overlook the mental perks that I have. Strength training is like therapy for my mind. It sculpts not only my muscles but also my mood. Anxiety? Reduced. Confidence? Skyrocketing (4). It's not just about lifting weights; it's about lifting my entire well-being.

My mind is clearer, and my mood is calmer.

Before I pick up Strength Training, I was increasingly out of breath and struggling my jog-turn-to-walk around the nearby Ayer Itam Dam up the hill. Now I don’t feel the fatigue anymore. And I can enjoy the scenery for as long as I used to - without breaking much of a sweat.

Building a Community of Strength

As we wrap up this fitness chat, I'm reminded of a timeless truth –

Proverbs 24:5 says, "A wise man is strong, yes, a man of knowledge increases strength."

Our fitness journey is a testament to our wisdom in taking care of our bodies.

So, my friend, if this strength training wisdom resonates with you, share it with others. Let's build not just muscles but a community of strength.

A grateful reminder:

  • Strength training is a transformative journey that strengthens our bones, boosts our metabolism, reduces abdominal fat, and enhances our mental well-being.

Hope this helps!

Please UPVOTE, COMMENT, & SHARE if it does.

May you be blessed with the power of David and the wisdom of Solomon.

Faithfully yours,

Strength Training with Gary

Strength Training
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References:

(1) Weaver, K., & Heaney, R. P. (2006). Calcium and osteoporosis prevention: A review. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 84(4), 835-845.

(2) Herbstman, R. C., & Tan, T. C. (2015). Review: Growth hormone and muscle strength. Endocrine Connections, 4(2), R90-R101.

(3) Hunter, G. R., Byrne, N. M., & Stevenson, E. (2012). Resistance training reduces visceral fat and improves insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese adults. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 44(4), 663-668.

(4) Streuner, S., Willutzki, N., Holzgruber, L., & Dietrich, S. (2014). Effects of a 12-week resistance training program on mental health in adults with major depressive disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 75(10), 1067-1073.

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