Strong Muscles = More Power

There are 4 main components of fitness:

• Aerobic

• Muscular Strength

• Flexibility

• Balance

 

In order to truly be fit, all four of these components must be addressed in your exercise routine. Not too long ago, lifting weights was considered something that only body builders and men did when they went to the gym.

However, studies conducted over the past decade have revealed how important muscular strength training is for everyone….men AND women, the young AND the old.

Evidence reveals that many of us start losing muscle and gaining body fat in our early thirties. By the age of 50, some of us has lost at least 10% of our muscle mass. This loss of muscle mass only continues unless we take measures to slow down that loss or even reverse it.

Strength Training

Some benefits of strength training include the following:

• Strength training improves bone health and muscle mass.

• Strength training makes you stronger and fitter.

• Strength training improves body mechanics with normal activities of daily living.

• Strength training is an essential component in disease prevention, such as osteoporosis, osteopenia and arthritis.

• Strength training can increase your level of endorphins, which can improve your mood.

• Strength training can improve metabolism by 15%….an increase in lean muscle mass, means an increase in your bodies caloric burning capabilities.

 

We should do something to build our muscular strength at least 2 times every week. But studies show you don’t have to lift heavy weights to build your strength. It is generally recommended that you work the major muscle groups using moderate levels of resistance.

Mat Pilates and equipment-based Pilates are considered great forms of strength training. In a mat Pilates class, you are using your own body weight to improve your strength with exercises such as Mermaid, Twist and Push Up. Pilates on equipment, such as the Universal Reformer, the Chair and the Tower are definitely great forms of strength training. Equipment-based Pilates uses tightly coiled springs as resistance. Any exercise that challenges or overloads your muscles can definitely make your muscles and bones stronger.

ABS Pilates offers several different services designed to get you on track to building your muscular strength. It offers the following services:

• Private Pilates training sessions…for those looking for a specialized approach to strength training. Recommended for those new to Pilates or who have an injury or medical diagnosis that would benefit from one-on-one strength training.

• Semi-private Pilates training…for those looking for a semi-specialized approach to strength training, but who is looking for a little more economical approach.

• Equipment classes….for those who are familiar with the Reformer or Tower but would like a more economical, group-based way to build that strength.

• Barre classes….for those who are looking for a fun way to build that strength.

• Health coaching…for those who would rather use weights to build their strength but don’t know where to begin.

Whether your decide to lift weights or sign up for the next Pilates equipment class, it is essential to your health to make sure your exercise routine includes some form of strength training. ABS Pilates offers several different ways to make sure you are building strength and becoming stronger.

****Contact ABS Pilates today and become stronger tomorrow!****