Being strong is an important element to your daily routine.

By progressively strengthening your muscles and connective tissue you are effectively teaching your body how to lift more, carry more and do more with less fatigue.

Also, did you know that strength training is crucial to weight control? Basically, more muscle = a higher metabolic rate. Higher metabolic rate means that more calories are consumed on a day to day basis and less energy is stored as fat. Strength training can provide up to a 15% increase in metabolic rate, this is enormously helpful for weight loss as well as long term weight control.

Other benefits to strength training regularly include reducing the signs and symptoms of  numerous diseases and conditions, among them:

● arthritis

● osteoporosis

● diabetes

● depression

● obesity

● back pain

Strength training routines often include calisthenics, free weights or machines. They generally address every major muscle group, including legs, hips, stomach, back, chest, and the arms. Your strength training routine is designed to be done daily and can be performed at different times throughout your day.

As with any exercise program, be sure to start at a relatively low intensity and give your body time to adjust. As the exercises become easier you can talk with your coach about adding more repetitions and/or weight.