The terms weight lifting, strength training, resistance training and weight bearing are all basically the same thing. You are moving your body, and thanks to the pull of gravity you have to strain to do it. That strain may be imperceptible if you’re lifting one pound, or very perceptible and difficult if you’re lifting 20 pounds.  Regardless of whether you are lifting three pounds or thirty three pounds as part of your daily exercise routine you are doing your body a great service. Weight lifting exercise (vs. purely cardio exercise like biking) can make your whole body leaner and more efficient. With this increase muscle mass developed from straining your muscles can rev your metabolism; muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue.

Not only do weight lifting exercises strengthen your muscles but these straining muscles tug on your bones causing them to become denser and stronger. Stronger muscles can also improve your balance, a factor that is very important as we age and the risk of dangerous falls increases. These are all great reasons to exercise, and perhaps one of the best reasons to strength train is because it just feels good. It feels good to be stronger and have more confidence in your ability to perform everyday tasks without having to rely on someone else’s help.