A lot of people think that strength training is only for bodybuilders and athletes, but the truth is, it's great for anyone who wants to have more energy and be healthier. Strength training can help you lose weight, increase your physical endurance, build muscle mass (which will also help with fat loss), improve bone density throughout your skeletal system - all while giving you a toned physique.
If you’ve been thinking of getting fit, barbell strength training is one option with numerous health benefits. But there are many misconceptions about lifting weights that persist to this day. In this article, we will be debunking the top myths related to strength training.
Myth: Barbell Strength Training Will Make You Inflexible
Weight lifting can, indeed, make you stiff, but so can any other exercise without paying attention to recovery. Some strength training sessions are designed to facilitate flexibility by lengthening and extending the muscles. Stretching, in turn, enables the muscles to grow larger.
In other words, barbell strength training ought to involve stretching and warm-up exercises. Rest is also crucial for boosting muscle growth and recovery, as with other workouts such as cardio.
Myth: Strength Training Makes Women Bulky
One of the most prevalent myths about barbell strength training is that it makes women bulky. But regardless of the amount of weight you are lifting, a barbell class alone is unlikely to increase muscle. You have to take enough calories to support and sustain the gains.
Additionally, women naturally do not have as much testosterone as the average male. That means their muscles will increase in mass at half the rate. That is even when you add a suitable bulk diet to a strength training program.
Nonetheless, weight lifting could be even more beneficial for women. It increases bone mass and prevents its loss, which minimizes the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis.
Myth: Cardio Is Better for Losing Weight
While cardio exercises can help you lose weight, they are not necessarily more effective than strength training. Having more muscle means you’ll burn more calories.
Lean muscle takes up to 20 calories a day as opposed to fat, which takes only about five calories at most. A combination of basic lifts and cardio could be the best approach to losing excess weight.
Myth: You Should Have Muscle Aches After Every Session
Beginners of barbell strength training will often experience aches and pain after the first few sessions. But the soreness will become less noticeable as you take more classes.
If you experience muscle aches frequently, it could be a sign that you are not doing it right. You should combine each session with stretching and warm-up exercises. It is also advisable to increase loads gradually as your body adapts to the workout sessions.
Myth: Strength Training Is Not for Seniors
As we grow older, our muscles and bones become progressively weaker. Regardless of your age, you can benefit from barbell strength training exercises.
There is no age limit for basic lifts. Even if you are weak and frail, you can start with no weights, using your body for resistance. You can also sign up for senior workout classes to boost your mobility, strength, and confidence.
Strength training programs are ideal for both men and women, as well as all age groups. It can improve your physiological health, immune system and can boost your confidence and self-esteem. Be sure to incorporate basic lifts in your workout sessions for your overall well-being.
