Strength training

What is strength training?

Strength training is a form of exercise that involves using resistance to build muscle strength and endurance. It is an excellent way to improve your physical health, as well as your mental well-being.

Strength training can be done in a variety of ways, including using free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, or even your own body weight. It’s important to start with a weight that is comfortable for you and gradually increase the weight as you become stronger.

What are the benefits of strength training?

One of the primary benefits of strength training is that it can help you build muscle mass and increase your overall strength. This can help you perform everyday activities with greater ease, such as carrying groceries or lifting heavy objects. Strength training can also help improve your bone density, which can reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis.

In addition to the physical benefits, strength training has been shown to have positive effects on mental health. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve sleep quality. Strength training also helps build self-confidence and self-esteem by providing a sense of accomplishment and progress.

How do I start strength training?

If you’re new to strength training, it’s a good idea to work with a personal trainer or fitness professional who can help you develop a safe and effective workout plan. They can also teach you proper form and technique to reduce your risk of injury.

What results can I expect from strength training?

The results you can expect from training will depend on your training format, how often you train and your individual physiology. The best results I’ve achieved have always been when I’ve worked with a coach or PT, so I’d encourage you to use a professional to lead the way in your training programme. 

There are lots of fitness influencers on social media, who should I listen to?

It’s really easy to be drawn into the alluring world of supermodel type fitness influencers on social media. They look amazing and some promise you the world, but many don’t have the qualifications or experience to substantiate the glamour.

In my experience, I would say the absolute best thing you can do is connect with someone locally at your gym and knock the Instagram model trainers on the head.

How do I choose a personal trainer or fitness coach?

Most gyms will have a coaches and PT wall or trainer profiles, where you can read about their interests and specialisms.

As an introvert, I’ve always found this my go-to first step in finding a PT, because it means I can choose when I start the process of looking for a PT, without having to speak to anyone and worry about what questions to ask.

After choosing between one and three coaches whose profiles I resonate with, I’ll procrastinate and overthink for a few days, then I’ll message each to ask for a phone call or to meet at the gym. Most will offer a free consultation, which are great opportunities to see how their training style fits with you.

Some questions you’ll want to consider asking are: