It’s no mystery that we are fans of resistance training at IPPTW. And it’s not only because it keeps us strong.There’s a whole lot of other benefits to training with load, and I’m here to dive onto a few…
Improve flexibility
This one might be a little confusing. We don’t typically associate resistance training with flexibility. However, especially when focusing on full range of motion, resistance training will promote flexibility, and has proved in some cases to be superior to static stretching.
Increase bone density
We need to do load bearing resistance training to keep our bones strong, its physics! Especially as we age, it is important to combat bone wasting with lifting in ways that load our skeleton- squats, deadlifts, lunges, push ups, etc. , etc.
Improve BP and Sugars
Compared to other forms of exercise, resistance training proves to be superior for managing bood sugar levels long term. A combination of resistance training and endurance training has shown to lower blood pressure just as much as antihypertensive medications, and in theory, should have longer lasting effects
Sleep More!
Lifting helps us sleep better. In fact, compared to the non lifter, a person who regularly strength trains is less likely to have poor sleep quality. Sleep is so important for so many reasons, but more as it relates to physical therapy and what I do on a daily basis, it is important for managing pain. Sleep deprivation has been linked to higher levels of inflammation and pain, and therefore is a factor when I’m treating an injury.
Improve mental health
Resistance exercise training has been shown to greatly reduce depressive symptoms in adults regardless of health status, total volume of training, or significant improvements in strength. Getting stronger is great for both the physical and mental body.
Aging Well
In addition to balance training and functional exercise, resistance training is one of the most effective types of exercise to age gracefully. By working on making strong muscles, we can help combat and reverse the adverse effects of aging, while preventing future disability and injury! Simply put, strong=less fragile.