You don’t have to be Hulk Hogan to reap the benefits of weight lifting

Lifting weights is not just for bodybuilders and wrestlers anymore. People of all ages and athletic abilities are now lifting weights for good health. Whether you lift 5-pound dumbbells like me, or bench press my weight, there are many health benefits to weight training.

Lifting weights helps you burn fat. The more muscle mass you have, the more fat you will burn. By lifting weights, you are building muscles which will help you burn fat when you are not exercising.

Strengthens bones. Lifting weights makes your bones stronger and less likely to become brittle and fracture. People of an older age and those with osteoporosis can prevent bone loss and fractures by weight lifting.

Builds muscles.  You don’t have to lift heavy weights in order to build muscle. A new study done at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada showed that muscles were built by lifting lighter weights and pumping until the muscles in a certain area became fatigued. Lifting light weights stimulated the muscles to make more muscle proteins, which built muscle over time.

Decreases pain. Lifting weights can help strengthen muscles and joints. If muscles are weak, they can become sore with everyday activities. You can strengthen abdominal and back muscles to decrease lower back pain or strengthen leg muscles to help a sore knee.

Makes you look good. Lifting weights will shape and define your muscles, making you look buff and toned. After lifting weights for awhile you may want to bust out those muscle tees again.

Whether you are an athlete looking to jump higher and run faster, or are just looking to correct bad posture, lifting weights will be beneficial. So go ahead, pump some iron.