Strength Training at Pittsburgh Gym

It’s Not Just About Building Muscle!

Think weightlifting is just about bulking up? Think again.

If strength training isn’t a regular part of your workout, you should strongly consider adding it to your fitness routine. A growing body of research supports the many benefits strength training programs provide.

First, let’s define what we mean when we say strength training, also known as resistance training. Generally, this type of training includes any physical movement that requires you to use your body weight or assistive equipment, like dumbbells or barbells, kettlebells or medicine balls, pulleys or weight machines, to build muscle mass, strength, and endurance.

There are several types of training you can choose to achieve your goals, like using your own body weight to work against the force of gravity. Planks and pushups are exercises that don’t rely on external equipment and have excellent strength-building capability.

The advantages of using free weights are many. First and foremost—you will get stronger! Research has shown that lifting free weights helps you get stronger much faster than using weight machines. Free weights also build balance and coordination because exercises strengthen stabilizer muscles and help strengthen the body overall. Additionally, free weights allow for a greater range of motion.

Physical therapists use resistance bands and loop bands to help patients recovering from injury. Why? Because when stretched, loop bands provide a level of targeted resistance that helps build strength, mobility, and stability. Working out with resistance bands can be just as effective as using free weights.

Weight machines, like you’ll find at Alexander’s Athletic Club, allow users to vary the amount of weight being lifted while helping to maintain proper form and alignment. If you are a beginner, or in need modifications or are working with an injury, weight machines are a good choice as they allow the user to isolate various muscle groups and reduce the risk of further injury.

If you are not yet convinced, consider these science-based facts. Strength training:

• Helps improve athletic performance
• Helps boost metabolism
• Decreases abdominal fat
• Lowers risk of injury
• Helps manage blood sugar levels
• Improves heart health
• Decreases the risk of falling
• Promotes greater mobility and flexibility
• Boosts mood

These are just a few of the reasons you should consider strength training, but here is one more: research has shown that weightlifting can make you a happier person!

So, go ahead. Start your strength training at our Pittsburgh gym — and claim your health AND happiness!

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