Muscle is a soft tissue made up of fibers. There are about 600 muscles in the body. There are three types, namely skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscles. Skeletal muscles form part of the musculoskeletal system that enables movement. When you build muscle, it is the skeletal muscles that are used. Cardiac muscles pump blood. Smooth muscles line organs, such as the stomach and bladder.
Building muscles involves eating the right type of food, especially proteins, and doing the right exercise. When you exercise, the muscles get sore due to microtears. As the muscles repair themselves and the microtears heal, the muscles get bigger. This only happens with continuous exercises. Strength training and resistance exercises help to build muscle. This does not result in you ending up like a bodybuilder. Here are some of the benefits of gaining muscle.
1. Higher Metabolic Rate
Fat cells store energy in the form of calories. Muscles use up these calories, even when you are at rest. Compared to a pound of fat, a pound of muscle burns three times as many calories. More muscle mass equals more calories burned, which helps to keep fat levels in line. You naturally lose muscle as you age. When this happens, metabolism slows down. Building and maintaining muscle will sustain your metabolism.
2. Stronger Bones
Your bones, tendons, and ligaments also strengthen when you build muscle. Bone is living tissue, so there is a process of bone formation and resorption (breaking down). As you exercise, the bones become stronger and denser. Strong muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments improve balance, protect you from getting badly injured and prevent diseases such as osteoporosis.
3. Prevents Disease
Glycogen is stored in the liver and muscles. More muscle mass allows you to store more glycogen. This translates to lowering and sustaining blood sugar levels. Exercising and building muscle reduces visceral fat. Visceral fat can cause various ailments such as high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. When you build muscle, you improve your overall health status.
Building muscle has many benefits. You look and feel great because your body releases endorphins (the feel-good hormone) when you work out. Squats, pull-ups, deadlifts, leg presses, and shoulder presses help build muscle. Incorporating a good amount of protein, fruits, vegetables, and the right carbohydrates and fats will help you in your quest to build muscle. Start working out to improve your health and extend your life. Give us a call today for more information on our fitness centers in Texas.