# 5 Reasons to Add Strength Training to Your Workout Routine
Cardio exercises have always been a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts when it comes to a proper workout routine. While cardio is unquestionably beneficial for burning calories and improving cardiovascular health, it frequently overshadows another equally important aspect of fitness: strength training. This blog will go over five compelling reasons why you should incorporate strength training into your workout routine.
## 1. Boosts Metabolism and Burns More Calories
Strength training not only increases muscle mass but also increases metabolism. Muscles are metabolically active tissue, which means they burn more calories even when they are resting. This means that increasing muscle mass through strength training can improve your body composition and help you burn more calories throughout the day. A Harvard School of Public Health study discovered that men who performed strength training exercises for 20 minutes per day had a 7% decrease in abdominal fat.
## 2. Prevents Muscle Loss
Muscle mass tends to decline as we age, which can lead to a condition known as sarcopenia. Sarcopenia can result in functional disability as well as an increased risk of falls and fractures. Strength training exercises performed on a regular basis can help to prevent muscle loss associated with aging and improve overall quality of life.
## 3. Improves Bone Health
Resistance training has also been shown to improve bone health. Weightlifting causes bone stress, which stimulates the production of osteoblasts (bone-building cells) and slows the activity of osteoclasts (bone-breaking cells). This process increases bone density, lowering the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
## 4. Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Strength training is not only good for your body, but it is also good for your overall health. Resistance training has been shown in studies to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer.
## 5. Enhances Mental Health
Strength training has been shown to improve both physical and mental health. Endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain, have been linked to exercise. Strength training has also been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Strength training should not be a difficult addition to your workout routine. Begin with bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and lunges and work your way up to lifting weights. Include strength training exercises two to three times per week, and allow your muscles to recover between workouts.
Finally, strength training is an important part of any workout routine. It improves not only physical health but also mental health and may lower the risk of chronic diseases. So, if you’ve only been doing cardio exercises, it’s time to branch out and start lifting weights!