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The average number one fitness problem for most people after age 25 is loss of muscle mass. It is not the number of years that is the problem it is the lack of muscle building and maintaining activity that we don't do as we get older costing us around half a pound each year and that loss doubling after age 50. As your muscle tissue is what drives the metabolism (the rate your body burns fuel) any loss of it slows the metabolic rate which can lead to increased body fat storage and the health risks that come with it. You cannot see or feel this muscle loss happening. But you will. It is very damaging and if the loss is left to continue will rob you of your health, mobility, self esteem and independence. You will become at risk of major disease along with the risk of osteoporosis and a weakened skeleton. Stopping this loss of muscle tissue should be at the very top of your exercise program which should comprise of mostly strength training exercise.
Here are some of the benefits: 1) Strong toned muscles help you lose weight. This highly active tissue uses 25% of our total calories utilized and burns more than 15 times more calories per day than fat tissue – even when you are resting or sleeping The calorie burning effect of toned muscle increases your sensitivity to the hormone insulin which has a positive and long term effort on losing excess body fat and controlling body weight forever. 2) Strong muscles are a bonus for your heart – That is because they can perform better with less oxygen, meaning your heart does not have to pump as hard when you are exercising. Firm muscle tissue 'squeezes' veins and arteries helping to push blood around the body with less pumping effort from the heart.
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3) Strong muscles support and protect your joints and your back. A well trained muscle is stronger moving the joints through a full range of motion. This increases flexibility and puts less strain on joints and connective tissue during all aspects of movement, especially during physical exertion reducing the chance of injury. Having strong muscles is important for treating and preventing arthritis allowing you to remain highly active for your entire lifespan. 4) Strong muscles make you feel and look better - Lean muscles are taut against your body, as opposed to soft flab, which hangs and sags. Strength training exercise will give you a leaner, firmer, stronger and more attractive body. Being strong also makes you feel good about yourself; you will feel more energized and have more self esteem and self confidence. You need active living to get and maintain strong muscles. Your exercise program will contain mostly strength training exercise as this is the only activity that will do the job. Long, slow steady state activities like walking, jogging or cycling are great as part of an active lifestyle but can never ever replace a proper exercise program. Your body and health does not have to get caught up in the downward spiral of degeneration. If you have not paid attention to your all over body strength before be assured it is never too late to rebuild your weakened muscles. In fact you will be surprised that you can make them stronger than they have ever been in your whole life. So, get started and make up it happen.
Do you want to discover the secret to rejuvenating your body and improving the quality of your life? Download my free ebook "I've Found the Fountain of Youth- Let Me Show You Too!" here: Reverse Aging For Free Fitness Report here Fitness Weight Loss Carolyn Hansen is a certified fitness expert and fitness center owner who coaches clients to look and feel younger.
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