Get Fit, Lose Weight, Build a Great Body, Prevent Disease

The benefits that many of us derive from weight training are diverse and categorical, so I'm inclined to view them in two conveniently defined categories:

• 1. Wellness, self-esteem and mind-body fusion and:
• 2. Remediation and alleviation of injury or chronic health conditions

The distinction is that the first category is about preventing disease, staying physically and mentally fit, longevity, building good body image, doing sport, socializing and having fun; and the second category is more about treating diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome and quite a few more chronic disease states for which weight training has shown benefit.

When I've finished listing all the benefits of weight training I think you'll be surprised. I even surprised myself when I finally got them down on paper.

Just about all of the benefits on this list are supported by some scientific study by health of fitness professionals or decades of practical experience; or else are just plain obvious. Okay, here we go.

Weight Training for Wellness and Mind-Body Fusion

Preventive health and the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle and body image are the core concepts in this category.

Bodybuilding, Shaping, Sculpting and Competing

Some people get such self esteem and confidence out of bodybuilding, shaping and toning, and powerlifting, including competition, that many of the other benefits are almost secondary for them. It becomes a way of life and a satisfying one at that.

A ground-breaking study found that high-force eccentric resistance training produced improved mobility in Parkinson's disease patients compared to conventional care. Eccentric training targets the return movement of joint action -- a straightening leg under weight emphasizing the quadriceps muscle of the thigh for example.

Source: about.com