Let’s start at the beginning; What is Strength Training
Strength training is any form of exercise where muscles work against resistance. That resistance can come from:
– Free weights; think dumbbells & barbells
– Weight machines
– Resistance Bands
– Bodyweight movements
The goal isn’t to just lift heavy weights. Strength training focuses on improving the body’s ability to produce force, support joints, and handle everyday physical demands
Strength training is often associated with people who are already strong, experienced, or highly confident in the gym.
In reality, strength training is one of the most adaptable and accessible forms of exercise available — particularly for beginners.
Who is strength training for?
Strength training is suitable for a wide range of people,
including:
– Beginners with minimal or no gym experience
– Older adults looking to maintain or improve strength & bone density
– People returning to exercise after time away
– Those managing joint or movement limitations
Exercises can be scaled by adjusting load, range of motion, tempo, or equipment. This makes strength training one of the safest and most flexible training methods when performed correctly.
Health benefits beyond muscle
Strength training contributes to overall health in a number of different ways;
– Increases bone density, reducing injury risk
– Improves joint support and movement control
– Helps maintain muscle mass with age
– Supports metabolic health
– Improves balance and coordination
These benefits apply regardless of age, gender or fitness background.
Strength training is perfect for beginners
Unlike unstructured exercise, strength training is typically organized and repeatable. Exercises are performed in sets & reps, allowing progress to be tracked overtime. This structure helps beginners understand what they’re doing and why. It also allows gradual progression, which reduces the risk of overtraining and injury
Where to start?
If you are new to strength training start by learning movement patterns
This can be done with the barbells and dumbbells or even using the machines if you feel more comfortable there. Focus on what you are feeling during the movement.
Use manageable loads, don’t try and lift to heavy to early
Ensure you allow recovery time between your sessions
And if you are still not sure; reach out to a trainer for some guidance.
