Jan 06 2009
Benefits of Weight Training
A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning showed that whole-body resistance training can reduce back pain. After 16 weeks, those who took part in the study experienced a 60% reduction in pain. Those who built muscle also gained strength, endurance, flexibility and a boost in their metabolism. Age seems to have no bearing on improvements. Even the elderly who can do a couple of sets with light hand weights can boost their overall health very quickly.
Hand weights do not have to be store-bought barbells either. Something as simple as a can of beans, a quart jug of water, or two cans of beans tied into a strip of pantyhose to loop over the ankle will serve the purpose.
Since muscle is ‘destroyed’ during strength training but grows back bigger and stronger than ever during rest, this exercise is most effective when a day or two of rest is allowed between weight training days.
