Why you should care about being strong

“I don’t want to be strong, I just want to be healthy.” Sometimes members or prospective members will say something similar to the above statement. Saying that they just want to be healthy, but they aren’t concerned with lifting heavy or getting strong.

But this line of thinking creates a false dichotomy between strength and health, as if they were mutually exclusive of each other.

The reality is that strength is foundational for health and longevity. Strength is the foundation of any physical capacity, whether endurance, power, or mobility. All of these find their common foundation in strength. You have to possess strength to express these other physical traits. This is why, although it is great to exercise in the form of running, sports, or yoga, if you don't have some form of strength training in your regimen, you're missing a vital component. Yes, some strength may be gained through these other forms of exercise, but none will elicit the same return on investment that resistance training does. Alongside supporting general movement throughout daily activities, strength has a unique effect on the physiology of our bodies and minds. It helps maintain healthy muscle tissue, cognitive function, our metabolism, coordination and balance. 

Strength allows us to do the things we love, while limiting the chances of injury. 

As Dr. Peter Attia says, “If you lose your strength, you lose your independence.”

So consider this the next time your coach tells you to go up in weight when you’re lifting. To be strong is to be healthy. But to be strong takes time and effort. It’s not enough to just go through the motions. We have to challenge the muscle in order to engage a response.

So lift heavy (with good form), recognizing that each set and rep is an investment into your health. 

Interested in learning more? Get started by scheduling a free Fitness Consultation with our team to chat more about Rise and see if we’re a good fit for you.