Lifting Weights has Multiple Benefits
Weights & Dumbbells Weight lifting, as exercise, has been around for lots of years; and, is a basic part of many exercise programs. I recently learned some reasons why, and here are some of them.
The loss of muscle mass causes a slowing of the bodies resting metabolism rate. When our body slows down, we naturally gain weight,in the form of fat. Lifting can, and most often, builds muscle to replace the fat. The more muscle- the faster the metabolism-the faster the metabolism-the more we naturaly lose unwanted pounds.
Aging causes the body to naturally loose muscle mass. One expert claims the rate of loss is about 7 pounds per decade for men, and approximately 5 pounds per decade for women. That doesn’t sound like much muscle until you multiply 7X5, (for 50 yoa), that is 35 pounds of muscle lost- that is a lot of muscle. If I am losing muscle the weight I have gained must be what? Some muscle I am reasonably sure-but too much fat I am told (by my doctor, my wife, my mother, my kids…the list goes on). Now that the problem is identified—what is the solution?
Free weights can be picked up at most sporting goods stores. I was told to start with small weights and start slow. The fast track in lifting most always leads me to frustration and anger. That is the combination for failure for me.
If weights are not in the budget,try this. Save a couple of milk jugs. Water weighs about 8 pounds per gallon. Use your scales to weigh the filled milk jugs so the weight is equal (as close as you can get it). Now you have two weights to use to start.
It was recommended that I start with one set of 8 to 12 reps of each exercise in my routine. The routine takes about 30 minutes, the use of weights three times a week, combined with walking on other days is a great way to begin a life of improved health.
The above combination is a way to help your heart, boost your brain, increase muscle mass, and increase your memory. That makes it easeier to remember to be one of the Heart Healthy Folks in your community.
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