In this post, we answer the most frequently asked questions we get about resistance training(RT).
Q: Won’t cardio exercise make me stronger, leaner and healthier too?
Q: Are machines better than other forms of resistance?
A: It’s not a “cut and dry” answer, but in our opinion, most machines take a back seat to dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells and body weight exercises. Most typical health club machines will require you to sit. This will not get your core and stabilizer muscles much work at all.
Q: How often should I do RT?
More important is the program you are following. A bad program done 4 x per week is not as good as a program put together by an expert done 1-2 x per week.
Q: I’ve heard light weights and high reps are better for fat loss. Is that true?
A: It is not true at all. The best strategy for fat loss is to incorporate a program which will cycle light, medium and heavy weights over time. If you always lift light weight (a weight you can handle more than 15 times), you will stop progressing quickly.
- Month 1, sets of 15 Reps
- Month 2, sets of 10 Reps
- Month 3, sets of 12 Reps
- Month 4, sets of 8 Reps
Even if you did the same exercises, but changed the reps AND the resistance, you will see better results than if you always did the same reps and resistance.
Q: Is RT appropriate or safe for older adults?
A: Age is not the determining factor in deciding who RT is right for. We have clients in their 80’s who are thriving with RT. They are stronger, leaner, healthier, and more mobile because of it.
Q: Do I need RT for my legs if I’m running and using the elliptical trainer?
A: These types of cardio activities will build endurance in your legs and hips, and may yield some small strength or muscle gains, but they cannot compare to squats, lunges, step ups, deadlifts and other leg based RT exercises for building strength and muscle in your legs, hips and core!
To find out how Resistance Training can benefit you, contact us at Active Life Fitness
