I am not afraid to admit that I am a former “cardio queen.”  In college I spent endless hours peddling on the bike, shuffling on the treadmill and bouncing on the elliptical.  While this type of cardiovascular training certainly provides health benefits it produced limited visible results.  Engaging in cardiovascular activity is imperative for achieving optimal health but if you want to take your fitness to the next level and experience supreme wellness than strength training is the way to go….total game changer – guaranteed

Strength training can be defined as any type of physical activity that causes resistance against muscular contraction.  Many people have the misconception that strength training must involve weight lifting but the use of one’s body weight or resistance bands are also quite effective in improving strength and anaerobic endurance.  In addition to making you look damn sexy, here are some of the many benefits that strength training can provide:

Weight Loss: Strength training increases lean muscle mass and torches fat.  Having more muscle enables a person to burn more calories, even at rest.  For every pound of muscle that is developed you can burn an extra 50 calories per day…seems small but trust me this adds up!  Build 3 lbs. of muscle and you are burning an additional 150 calories each day.

Strong Bones: Forget the “Got Milk?” ads, strength training increases bone mineral density better than milk or any calcium supplement on the market.  As we age (even in our mid 30s – yikes) our bone density begins to diminish.  Strength training is the absolute best way to counteract this and halt the aging process as it relates to our bones.

Instant Mood Boost: Physical activity causes your brain to release endorphins which produces a happy state of mind. In addition, making the time to take care of yourself is proven to alleviate stress and increase self-confidence.

Better Sleep: Exercise can help to balance the body and is vital in the development of better sleeping patterns.

Decrease in Heart Rate & Blood Pressure:  Just a small amount of extra activity each day can lead to weight loss which can significantly lower HR and blood pressure thereby decreasing the risk of heart disease.

Through an effective strength training program you will also experience greater strength and endurance, increased range of motion and flexibility as well as better stability.  Stop whatever you are doing right now and start your strength training program – I do squats in my kitchen every morning while my coffee is brewing.  😉

For more information or to order a customized strength training program email me today: NJFitnessTrainer@gmail.com