Do Weights Not Cardio
My story is not unique, I am like most people in that I want to look fit and feel amazing in my own skin. We all want that right? The goal is pretty much the same, the challenge arises in how to get there, and in the most efficient way possible. After years of exclusively doing cardio to achieve my goals, I have come to the realization that much of that was time wasted. Gone are the days of long runs in punishing weather to attain that feeling of accomplishment for the day. Now I have completely changed gears and the results have already been amazing. A change from cardio-centric workouts to weight lifting using a Smith Machine and dumbells has drastically changed the shape and strength of my body. I use a great app, 5x5 StrongLifts to guide me on proper form, what I should be doing and how much I should be lifting.
Research shows that you still achieve all the benefits from an elevated heart rate by lifting weights as you would from cardio, in addition to powerful fat burning properties that last up to a day after lifting! And more muscle means a higher metabolism and a more efficient fat burning machine.
If the scientific evidence isn't enough to convince you to change up your gym routine, then let your body sway you. When I was running, I was slim to be sure, but I had no shape and I wasn't truly physically strong. I suppose it was when I had children, that I realized how much I needed to strengthen every part of my body. My arms, core (which protects the back) and legs all needed reinforcement in order to keep up with highly active kids. I owed it to them and to myself to rise to the task and be the best I could be. And being happy with what you see in the mirror, especially after having kids, is a huge confidence booster. How you feel about your appearance affects how you interact with your family, coworkers, local barista and the rest of the world. And if you emit positivity and joy because you truly feel good, who knows what new things you'll attract into your life.
So do not be afraid to let go of old workout habits, because the benefits of weightlifting can be ο»Ώlife changing and not exclusive to just your appearance.