Tag: Strength

Fitness

Benefits Of Kettlebell Training

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Benefits Of Kettlebell Training

Kettlebells have been used for centuries, originating in Russia. Kettlebells (called girya in Russian) are associated with great power and strength. They were originally used as counterweights to measure the weight of goods, but were eventually used in strength competitions. Today the weights are featured in gyms and exercise classes. Kettlebells work several muscle groups at a time. Holding a lot of weight by a handle engages your arm, leg, shoulder, back, and abdominal muscles. The pull on your muscles helps to strengthen them. Kettlebells are also said to help strengthen back muscles and improve posture.

Low impact exercise: Kettlebells keep your feet planted on the ground, which reduces force and pressure on your knees. For some people, this may be a better option for getting the heart pumping than higher impact exercises such as jump training.

Full-body workout: Kettlebell swings use your upper body, core, and lower body for a great full-body workout.

(Photo credit: Ambitious-Studio-Rick-Barrett)

Calorie burn: The workouts are high intensity and can burn a lot of calories in a short time. And you may burn more calories after the workout due to post-exercise oxygen consumption, which is a temporary increase in metabolism to support recovery.

(Photo credit: Pixie-Be)

Quick exercise: Most kettlebell workouts can be completed in as little as 10–15 minutes and require only a kettlebell to get started.

Better cardiorespiratory fitness: Kettlebell swings involve your whole body, which requires your heart to beat faster and pump blood throughout your body.

(Photo credit: Nexa-Black)

Shelley & Michelle xx

Fitness

5 benefits of weight training

by shelleyandmichelleLeave a Comment on 5 benefits of weight training
5 benefits of weight training

If you want to improve your health It is said that weight training is a way to achieve this. It involves using one or more muscle groups. Weight training is also known as strength training, resistance training, and muscular training. The definition of strength training is any physical movement in which you use your body weight such as, lifting weights, dumbbells, resistance bands or circuit training. This builds muscle mass, strength and endurance.

Makes you stronger: Strength training helps you become stronger. It helps improve performance in sports that require speed, power, and strength. Gaining strength allows you to perform everyday tasks much easier, such as carrying heavy shopping bags or running / walking up a flight of stairs.

Makes your bones stronger: Weight-bearing exercises put temporary stress on your bones, sending a message to bone-building cells to take action and rebuild bones stronger. Having strong bones reduces your risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and falls, especially as you age. The great news is, you can reap the bone-strengthening benefits of strength training at any age.

Improves your mood: It is said that regular weight training may boost your mood and improve your mental health such as reduce anxiety. The great thing about exercise is that it releases endorphins, which can put you in a great and positive mood.

(Photo credit: Delaney-Van)

Can help you appear leaner: When building more muscle and losing fat, you will appear leaner. Losing body fat and building stronger and larger muscles will achieve more muscle definition, creating a stronger and leaner appearance.

(Photo credit: Alexandra Tran)

Boosts your self-esteem: Strength training can add a boost to your self-confidence. It helps you overcome challenges, work towards a goal, and appreciate your body’s strength. It can increase your self-efficacy, the belief that you’re able to succeed at or perform a task which can improve your confidence.

Shelley & Michelle xx

Fitness

EIGHT REASONS TO STRETCH BEFORE AND AFTER EXERCISE

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Whilst working out over the years we’ve noticed there are people that don’t stretch before or after working out. This is one of the worst things you can do when exercising as it can result in muscle tear and injury.

Stretching should be an essential part of your every day workout. Below we have listed reasons why you should always take the time to stretch.

1. Stretching before exercise allows your muscles to loosen and prepares your body to take on the impact of exercise you have chosen to do.

2. Your muscles are less likely to become injured by sudden movement when undergoing an activity. Whilst stretching you reduce the risk of injury.

3. After working out, stretching your muscles helps loosen the tightness effect that can lead to post-workout aches and pains.

4. Stretching actually improves your posture. When you stretch the shoulders, lower back and chest it helps keep your back in alignment which will improve your posture.

5. Tense muscles can cut off circulation which can result in a lack of oxygen and essential nutrients. Stretching allows your muscles to relax and increases blood supply to your muscles and joints.

6. Stretching reduces and manages stress. Well-stretched muscles hold less tension and can help you feel less stressed.

7. Regular stretching routines can help prevent future back pain by strengthening your back muscles and reducing the risk of muscle strain.

8. Stretching not only increases flexibility, but can also calm the mind. When stretching focus on mindfulness and meditation exercises which is done during yoga and pilates.

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Shelley & Michelle xx