The Physical and Mental Benefits of Lifting

[bigbang101]

Bodybuilding is a form of physical exercise that involves lifting weights and performing other exercises to increase muscle mass and strength. It is a popular activity among people who want to improve their physical appearance, increase their athletic performance, or just enjoy the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.

There are numerous benefits to bodybuilding, both physical and mental. Some of the most notable benefits include:

Improved Physical Health: Bodybuilding can help improve overall physical health by increasing muscle mass, strengthening bones, and improving cardiovascular endurance. It can also help reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Increased Strength and Endurance: Bodybuilding can help increase muscle strength and endurance, which can improve physical performance in activities such as sports and everyday activities.
Improved Physical Appearance: Bodybuilding can help improve physical appearance by increasing muscle mass and toning the body. This can lead to increased confidence and self-esteem.
Stress Relief: Exercise in general has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health. Bodybuilding can provide an outlet for stress and can improve overall mental well-being.
Improved Sleep: Exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, and bodybuilding is no exception. Improved sleep can lead to increased energy and productivity during the day.
Social Benefits: Many bodybuilders enjoy the social aspect of the sport and the sense of community it provides. Training with others can provide motivation and support, which can be beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.

Improved Posture: Building muscle can help improve posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine and other joints. This can help reduce the risk of developing problems such as back pain and poor posture.
Better Balance and Coordination: Bodybuilding can help improve balance and coordination by strengthening the muscles that support the body. This can help reduce the risk of falls and injuries, especially in older adults.
Increased Metabolism: Building muscle can increase the body's resting metabolic rate, which is the number of calories the body burns at rest. This can help individuals maintain a healthy weight and prevent weight gain.
Increased Bone Density: Bodybuilding can help increase bone density, which is the amount of bone tissue in the bones. This can help reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.
Improved Joint Function: Bodybuilding can help improve joint function by strengthening the muscles that support the joints. This can help reduce the risk of developing problems such as arthritis and other joint conditions.

Improved Cognitive Function: Research has shown that regular physical activity, including bodybuilding, can improve cognitive function and brain health. It can increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps to support the growth and survival of neurons. It can also improve blood flow to the brain, which can help improve concentration and memory.
Improved Mood: Exercise in general has been shown to improve mood and reduce the risk of developing depression and anxiety. Bodybuilding can provide an outlet for stress and can help improve overall mental well-being.
Reduced Risk of Developing Chronic Conditions: Regular physical activity, including bodybuilding, has been shown to reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It can also help reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer.
Improved Sexual Health: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve sexual health and function in both men and women. It can improve blood flow to the genitals, increase libido, and improve sexual performance.
Overall, bodybuilding can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional and certified fitness trainer before starting any exercise program.

References:

"Benefits of Strength Training." American Council on Exercise, www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/6147/benefits-of-strength-training.
"Exercise and Older Adults." National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 26 Mar. 2020, www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-and-older-adults.
"The Surprising Benefits of Strength Training." Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/the-surprising-benefits-of-strength-training.
"Exercise and Arthritis." Arthritis Foundation, www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/exercise/benefits/exercise-and-arthritis.

"Exercise and the Brain: Something to Chew On." Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, www.health.harvard.edu/anxiety-and-depression/exercise-and-the-brain-something-to-chew-on.
"Physical Activity and Health." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/.
"Exercise and Chronic Disease." American Heart Association, www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/exercise-and-chronic-disease.
"Exercise and Sexual Health." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 14 Mar. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/exercise-and-sexual-health/art-20044129.

"Physical Activity and Health." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/.
"Benefits of Strength Training." American Council on Exercise, www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/6147/benefits-of-strength-training.
"Exercise and Stress: Get Moving to manage Stress." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 23 Mar. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469.
"Exercise and Sleep." National Sleep Foundation, www.sleepfoundation.org/exercise-and-sleep.

[RingOfFire]

No question lifting weights has health benefits. I am in my late 60s and have been lifting most of my life... I am in better physical shape than most guys in their 20s. It is amazing what benefits in confers. These days I do a combination of lifting and cardio a few times a week, not as heavy a lifter as I used to be... But still when I go for a while without doing it I can really tell the difference. It keeps you focused on your body and your health... and you always like the way your body looks. When I was younger I played sports and did martial arts too. Don't do that now though... no time!

I think it's great when women stay in shape too. But I find "muscular" women unattractive. Women's bodies are designed by nature to have higher body fat and when they are "ripped" (they don't get as ripped as guys but just look emaciated) it looks unnatural... like a cheap imitation of a man. And I am not attracted to men. But I do like when they are toned and look fit. But whatever makes a woman feel good is fine with me... just because I don't find that body type attractive doesn't mean she shouldn't do whatever makes her feel good about herself.

[exitseven]

Good MyTake. I have been a gym rat back before Arnold came to America. I joined a gym in the next town so nobody I knew would see me. I think it really did give me more confidence and it definitely gave me more strength and endurance. I lost fat and gained muscle. Eventually I started running marathons. .

[exitseven]

Thanks for the MHO😎

[Anonymous]

I sometimes watch my husband pumping iron. Gets me wetter than October.

[smølf]

Physical drawbacks:

• Muscle strain or tear
• Joint pain or injury (e. g. rotator cuff)
• Lower back pain
• Dehydration
• Imbalance in muscle development
• Osteoarthritis

Mental drawbacks:

• Burnout
• Plateau in progress
• Fear of injury
• Decreased motivation
• Comparison with others
• Negative body image
• Depression and anxiety.

Worth to mention there are potential drawbacks as well.

[AdithyaR]

Agreed with everything but the social aspect part. But that's just my personal thing. I know others do like being social in the gym and having workout buddies.

I recently got back into working out after a long time not doing anything. Three weeks in and already feeling a lot of difference.

[hypojoe]

Yeah buddy some people just love the sport for others its a full time job to maintain that look but there are tons of strong guys that do not have a ronnie coleman physique

[Guy13]

Too much of anyone thing usually doesn't end well... steroids etc.

[strateguy632]

but it seems like a strain on joints. also the idea of better physical appearance i doubt especially your photo with vein bulge instead smooth

[Anonymous]

You get all of those benefits and much more by doing overcoming Isometric / static lifts of all of the ones traditionally done in the weight room. You can do this using an Isochain commercial or build one DIY method.

[D_Bone_Steak]

Good to actually read a positive message for once. I'll put a like on this take.

[Anonymous]

Bodybuilding is bullshit and you know it... you're using 100% none of you are natural. you're not gaining any benefits except for stroking your own egos.

[bamesjond0069]

This is fat shaming. Fat people can experience all the same benefits just from eating potato chips and binging Netflix. 😏

[McKellar]

I seriously need to get myself back in shape again. Shame on me for slacking in that area.

[Jakes310]

Thanks for posting something positive and well-researched on here. The site could use more of it

[gagfriend]

Well said. Good post