Weight training has been found to be much more popular in recent times in people of all ages
. You will find more younger people than ever before in the local gym using weights in their workouts.
The question that often comes up is this: "Is weight training only for young athletic types?" The answer to that question is not that complicated. Weight or "resistance" training increases muscle mass no matter what your age.
Without some form of weight or resistance training added to our workout program, we will continue to lose muscle mass as we age. From the age of about 25 most men and women begin to see body-fat levels increase and muscle decrease. It's just a normal part of growing older.
To counteract this tendency it is imperative to have some sort of weight lifting or resistance training in your lifestyle. As our muscle mass decreases we become more frail, weak and prone to many different physical problems.
It is proven by university studies that weight training adds a significant level of quality to the physical life of anyone, including those in their later years. One study performed at a university showed that strength and flexibility among a group of men between 60 and 72 years old increased an average of 200 percent on a 3 day a week weight training program. This proves that the proper use of weights in a training regimen increases body strength and flexibility.
Studies also show that some of the largest surges of exercising, particularly weight training programs among men and women in America is taking place in the age group of those over 50. The results shown in the lives of many of these people prove that you don't have to be an elite athlete to consider resistance training with weights to be beneficial in improving your quality of life.
Even if you are currently over 50 and you have not set foot in a gym or been involved in any type of fitness program for years, if you are reasonably healthy and have your doctor's blessing, you are ready to begin a workout program that includes using weights to increase your strength and overall health.
Remember that training with weights is not about becoming a muscle bound athlete. Training with weights is a vital part of any serious fitness program no matter what your age. It does not matter what your level of athletic ability is or that you have never lifted weights before. Your goal should be to increase your strength. You may be amazed at how quickly you can do so.