Why is strength training important?

Strength training has obvious benefits like improving your speed, mobility and ability to lift heavy objects. But did you know that stronger muscles are also key in preventing and managing health conditions, healing from injury and recovering from infection?

Exercise improves heart health and controls blood glucose levels. Regular strength training helps to regulate blood pressure, lower total and LDL cholesterol and strengthen the heart and blood vessels, which, in turn, improves blood circulation. Studies show that muscle-strengthening activities reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In fact, it can also reduce the likelihood of prediabetes progressing to type 2 diabetes. Resistance training increases muscle mass, reduces BMI, improves insulin sensitivity and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Further, there is evidence to show that muscle health influences your immunity as well as your ability to recover from illness and injury. Healthy muscles not only help your immune system to function optimally, but are also the major storage site for amino acids that are used by the body during a trauma or infection. Poor muscle mass can affect your body’s response to injury and infection, making it imperative for you to incorporate strength training into your weekly workout routine. 

Muscle strengthening is crucial for bone development. According to fitness instructor and popular celebrity trainer, Mrs. Yasmin Karachiwala, “Women, more than men, lose muscle after a certain age and have problems like osteopenia and osteoporosis. So it’s really important for women to focus on building muscle— building healthy muscle— muscle that’s going to help them live a well-balanced life.” By improving bone health and muscle mobility around major joints like hips, knees and ankles, strength training also enhances your ability to support your own body, lowering your risk of fall and injury.

Along with exercise, nutrition, too, plays an important role in building muscle strength. Says Mrs. Yasmin Karachiwala, “It is important to consume protein… because after a certain age, we lose bone density. If you have strong muscles, they support your bones. I always encourage women to build muscle to support their bones as they age. That can be done faster and more efficiently with the consumption of protein.” Science-based nutrition supplements can help to bridge nutritional gaps, meet your protein requirement and prevent muscle loss.

Strength training while dealing with a health condition

People of all genders and at every age and stage of life stand to gain from building muscle.

However, it is important that you work out in a safe and supervised environment. The kind of physical activity must depend on your specific needs and circumstances and be aided by the right nutrition intake and lifestyle. If you have a preexisting health condition, speak to your doctor to find out what precautions you should take in outlining a workout regimen. Consulting a fitness trainer who can tailor a plan that’s optimal for you will ensure that you don’t end up with an injury or a mishap.

Technology can be a great companion that helps you keep your fitness goals on course while managing a health condition. Remote monitoring devices that are minimally invasive and keep you connected with your healthcare professionals at all times can you give you peace of mind while working out, if you have a cardiac condition like arrythmia. People with diabetes can now use sensor-based continuous glucose monitors that map blood sugar levels in real-time and alert you and your doctor, in case of any deviation in glucose trends that may need attention. So while you work hard to build muscle, your glucose monitor painlessly tracks your health data, giving you a reality check, if and when you need one!

Stronger muscles are the gateway to good health. Not only does exercise improve heart health and blood glucose regulation, but the benefits of strength training permeate all aspects of health, including healing and immunity. Training to build muscle mass and tone and following a diet that supports the recovery and health of your muscles, are vital aspects of any fitness plan. Whether you’re dealing with a health condition or have always been fit and active, incorporate muscle strengthening into your workout routine so you can meet your fitness goals and enjoy your best possible health! 

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in this document is only suggestive /for patient education and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice or recommendations from Abbott. Please consult your doctor for more information.