It happens every year – as we welcome new beginnings, millions of people around the globe make a New Year’s resolution to be more fit and start working out. Whether you’re planning on working with a personal trainer or doing it on your own, strength and conditioning should be a part of your New Year’s fitness resolution. Gym membership sign-ups surge at the start of the year as fitness-minded people commit to their health. There’s nothing like a fresh start to examine your approach to health, diet, and fitness. Here’s why strength and conditoning should be part of your resolution:
Increased Muscle Mass and Metabolism
Too often New Year’s fitness resolutions focus solely on rapid weight loss without a sustainable, long-term goal of maintaining your fitness and health. Strength and conditioning will have you doing exercises that target your whole body. You will use different muscles to strengthen, shape, and tone your body. When you increase muscle mass, not only do you burn more calories but you also boost your metabolism, two factors that help with weight loss. Along with diet, a rounded approach is needed to maintain weight loss, and strength and conditioning should be a part of it.
Improved Posture
Humans were designed for movement, but our work culture is centered around sitting at desks and staring at computers. It’s no wonder that our spines are taking the brunt of this lifestyle. Strength and conditioning strengthen your abdominals which are instrumental in proper posture.
Better Mood
It’s no secret that exercise gives you a serotonin (and other endorphins) boost, a naturally occurring chemical in our brains that affects learning, memory, and moods. As you’re pushing yourself through your strength and conditioning exercises you may be asking yourself “Why did I sign up for this?!”. But the exercise “high” afterward is worth it! You’ll also benefit from better sleep, which should put a smile on your face.
Healthy Bones
Several studies show strength and conditioning training helps slow down age-related bone loss. It also works to prevent osteoporosis and fractures.
Deeper Connection with Your Body
Proprioception is “...the body's ability to perceive its position in space.”. In short, it means being aware of your body’s movements and positions as it moves. Strength and conditioning will nurture your already existing relationship with your body’s movements and take it even deeper. Increased proprioception means you are less likely to injure yourself whether through a fall or while exercising!
How to Add Strength and Conditioning to Your Routine
If you’re ready to add strength and conditioning to your routine, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a seasoned gym user who’s looking to improve your technique or a beginner just starting your strength and conditioning journey, Fog City Fitness will take you there. From an initial assessment to a thorough workout regimen and a nutritional plan, we can help you achieve your New Year’s resolutions in a healthy yet challenging manner. Welcome the new year with us and put your body first by improving your cardiovascular, skeletal, and mental health through strength and conditioning training!
