resistance training

The benefits of exercise cannot be thoroughly described. There are quite simply too many to enumerate. Most people get into a habit of exercise because they want to improve their general health. There are others who incorporate exercise into their daily regimen because they are looking to improve their physique or lose a few pounds.

Others still, pick up habits of exercising because they enjoy the activity. Regardless of the initial reason for getting into exercise, however, many people find that the greatest rewards of all are those that are felt in the mind. Resistance training in particular has been shown to provide great rewards to both body and mind.

By devoting time to resistance training you can count on developing your muscles. An ancillary – and perhaps even greater benefit – is the boost you will feel in your emotional and mental functioning. This is evidenced by countless case studies as well as science. When you engage in a resistance training session, your brain releases endorphins.

To the body, endorphins equate to pleasure. They are released when you are happy, when you eat a good meal, and even while having sex. The secret here is that you can actually force your body into producing endorphins by spending some time in the gym. Most times, endorphins are released as a result of doing something pleasurable, but when it comes to resistance training, you essentially force your body to manufacture them, thereby creating a pleasurable sensation.

While it may seem counterintuitive that participating in something which may feel painful can create a euphoric feeling, this is undoubtedly the case. The best part of this is that the pleasurable feeling continues well after you are done with your work out.

People who regularly engage in resistance training report higher levels of well-being and self-esteem. Conversely, depression, sleeplessness and anxiety levels are all lower in people who work out on a regular basis. In some instances, individuals who have spent a life time on anti-depressant medications have been able to taper off of their medication after only a month or two of regular training.

Stepping away from the chemical reasons behind fitness leading to improved mental functioning, there is a simple causal relationship between resistance training and feeling better. When you immerse yourself in a regular training regimen, you are continuously setting goals for yourself. By accomplishing these goals, you begin to have an increased level of confidence and self-worth. Although your goals are generally fitness related, the successes in this facet of your life will carry over into all other areas of your life as well. As your confidence grows in the gym, it will also increase at home and work.

Lastly, as you spend time improving your health, you will become more proud of your physique. This could very well lead to a better self image and improved self-worth. It is amazing how people who feel better about their bodies become more sociable, confident and generally happy.

With all of these wonderful benefits, there is no reason not to begin resistance training now!

Author: Tanner Renna
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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