Why I love Lifting Weights and Why I Think You Will Too

Weight lifting and working out is all over social media these days. It’s almost impossible to open a social media app without seeing some sort of post in a gym or an ad for a supplement. But really….what’s not to love? The pros outweigh the cons by a long shot and it's a rare day that you hear of someone who gave weight lifting a fair chance but didn’t like it. The way it makes you feel when you’re finished with your workout and leaving the gym keeps people, including myself, coming back for more. 

Gives You Mental Clarity

It’s strange how picking up heavy things and setting them down can clear your brain and settle your emotions. Pushing your body past where you think it can go creates more blood flow which means more oxygen and nutrients to your body and brain. Working out also creates additional hormones that affect the brain in a positive way, modifying the structure and function of the hippocampus. 6 months of consistent strength training has been shown  to increase areas of the brain which has a direct impact on mental function. There’s really nothing like a good, hard workout session to clear your mind and put you in a good mood, and there’s science to back it. As a middle aged woman, I can use all of the mental clarity I can get. These days, my brain feels shrouded in a cloud of fog but all it takes is a good, hard weights session to send that fog packing. 

Changes Your Physique 

Who doesn’t want a bangin’ body? I think if you took a poll, the results would be up there pretty high. Fortunately, that goal is possible for those willing to put in the time and effort.

There’s no question that exercise changes your physique. But lifting heavy weights takes it a step further and allows you to sculpt your body like you want it. If you are consistently working out and progressively overloading your muscles, your body will change in positive ways. The key is consistency and patience. Building lean muscle also has a positive effect on your metabolism, meaning you’ll burn more calories even when at rest. That’s a big win-win!

Improves Your Sleep

If there’s anything I’ve learned as I’ve aged, it’s that sleeping well is not always promised. (What’s up with that, anyway??) It has been proven that a good, solid workout session can help you fall asleep faster, and the added bonus of weight loss can help reduce or prevent sleep apnea. Getting a good night's sleep means more energy and productivity the next day along with better recovery and better overall health. Our body’s do amazing things while we’re slumbering away, and lifting weights can help your body get there faster and stay there longer. Don’t miss out on all the repairing and rebuilding that our body’s do during sleep.

Increases Your Bone Density

Concerns about bone density come with aging. 20 years ago I hardly knew what bone density was and it definitely wasn’t a concern of mine. But that has changed as I’ve reached middle age. Now I think about how I want to feel as I reach my older years, and a strong body is at the top of that list. 

Resistance training and progressive overload has a direct impact on bone density. Putting stress on your bones on a consistent basis makes them stronger and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. If I can strengthen my bones and gain more strength and mental clarity all at the same time, it seems like a no brainer for me. 

Cute Workout Clothes

I mean, let’s be real. Going to the gym is just another reason to buy cute workout outfits. There’s so many options out there and so many different styles that you’ll have no problem finding something that makes you feel confident and like the queen that you are. If you need some new options, check out our shop. We’ve got lots of options to make you feel strong and worthy of going for the heavy weights. 

Old Lady Gains Cougar Navy Halter Tank

Makes You Feel Invincible

Increased bone density, better sleep, positive physical changes….those are all good reasons to lift weights. But when it comes down to it, what keeps me coming back for more is the way it makes me feel. Increased bone density isn’t an instant result. Physical changes definitely aren’t instant either. But the workout high and the feelings of invincibility are, and they’re what keep me hungry for more. I can walk into the gym feeling weighed down with loads of stress on my shoulders, and walk out feeling like a brand new person who has the world at my fingertips. Weight lifting is the best pick-me-up and will give you a positive mindset and a boost in your mood. Getting stronger is a bonus, and as you notice your strength increasing it will only solidify your relationship with lifting weights. 

Get out there and try it! If it looks intimidating, grab a buddy or join a class. The benefits are worth every bit of time and effort you put into it. I promise.