Resistance training is important to help tone muscle, build strength, prevent bone density loss, and to help protect the joints. Resistance training doesn’t mean you have to go to a gym to lift weights. That is only one method of resistance training. You can use personal training equipment, a swimming pool, or even your own body weight as your source of resistance.
One of a fitness instructor’s responsibilities is to help create a training plan that meets each client’s needs--where they currently are and helps guide them to their goals. Resistance training can be used in a variety of ways to obtain different goals. For example, a body builder uses resistance training to increase muscle size and strength with a focus of adding bulk. An endurance athlete can use resistance training speed work to help correct a muscular imbalance and create a more powerful turnover of the legs. Other individuals just want to tone up and stay healthy. Whatever end of the fitness spectrum you fall on, resistance training will still play an important part.
Plyometric or plyo exercises use body weight for resistance. Examples of plyo exercises are squats and lunges. These types of resistance training are well-loved for their effectiveness and ease of being able to do them anywhere without any other equipment. Trainers with boot camp certification or experience use plyo exercises in their classes to help tone up and challenge their clients.
Of course, gym equipment can also be used. Moves such as the triceps pushdowns with ropes helps to tone the triceps muscles and tighten up loose skin. Other gym equipment can be used to create a personalized resistance training plan to strengthen and tone you up.
Swimming pools or water aerobics are another option for getting in resistance training. As you walk, kick, or jump in the water, the body has to fight the water displacement giving you a great resistance training workout. You can do plyo exercises, such as lunges and squats, in the water to lessen the impact on the joints.
Resistance training is important as it can benefit other areas of your life. It can help make you more stable with increased functional fitness. Resistance training can also help correct any imbalances and support the joints, keeping you injury free. Meet with a local fitness trainer and learn how the importance of resistance training can benefit you today!
