Are you interested in increasing your overall strength? Whether you just want to feel stronger and healthier or if you have a specific goal or an athlete, increasing strength is always a good idea.
You've probably heard the various recommendations for increasing strength and you may have even looked into strength training routines. The problem is, for many it may conjure up images of bulging muscles and weight lifters. But resistance training routines are much more than the weight lifting you see at the Olympics.
A good resistance training routine will help you become stronger and leaner but also increase your flexibility and your agility. If you enjoy playing sports, such as golf or tennis, resistance training can help you become a stronger athlete.
Resistance training routines don't necessarily mean big, bulging muscles. A good training program will allow you to gradually increase resistance while toning muscles. When you combine resistance training with a stretching routine, you not only tone the muscle, but you also stretch the muscle and tendons. The stretching process makes the muscles longer and leaner.
You can easily build strength by working with lighter weights than a traditional weight lifting routine. Lifting large weights for low repetitions will increase the likelihood of muscle tears and will over time build greater bulk. While working with smaller amounts of weight still builds muscle and strength, just not the bulk that classical weight lifting results in.
Typically, resistance training routines result in muscle growth, but it usually takes at least six weeks before that muscle growth is obvious (but don't give up, the work is worth it and once you start building muscle mass you'll be glad you stuck with it). Of course, if you have practiced resistance training exercises in the recent past, you may find that your muscles rebound faster than a beginner.
This type of training allows you to become stronger and have greater stamina. If you play golf, resistance training routines can help you develop a more powerful swing, or a great backstroke for a tennis player. Many professional athletes incorporate strength training routines into their sports training just for the purpose of becoming stronger in their chosen sport.
Strength training routines result in lean, strong muscles. When combined with a routine of stretching, you'll have amazing strength and flexibility. Imagine the difference it will make for your appearance, your lifestyle and your favorite sport.
With just a few simple muscle stretching activities, you can rebuild your muscles and take them to a new level of functionality. You'll feel better, have less tension, and be able to perform your favorite activities with more strength and energy.
Copyright (c) 2009 Nancy Rishworth
Nancy Rishworth, grew up dancing and became a qualified Aerobics and Fitness & Personal Trainer. She is also a qualified Naturopath having studied various healing modalities through healthy eating, herbal remedies, vitamins, massage & exercise. Her Flexibility Plus Workout Program improves flexibility, strength and overall health. For nutritional info and other core strength and cardio exercise tips and guidelines go to [http://www.flexibilityplus.com/]
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