You’ve probably heard it a hundred times:
“Cardio is king for fitness.”
But what if I told you that’s not the full story?
If your job doesn’t require marathon-level endurance and you’re not spending hours chasing after
toddlers, resistance training might just be the real king of your fitness routine.
Let’s Set the Scene:
Imagine this.
You’re at the gym, staring at the treadmill, thinking, “How long do I need to do this to make a difference?”
You push through a cardio session, feeling sweaty but unsure if it’s really doing anything for your long-term goals.
Now picture this instead:
You’re lifting weights, feeling stronger with every rep.
Your muscles are working, your posture is improving, and you’re burning calories – even after the workout ends.
You’re not just exercising – you’re building a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.
The Possible Impact:
If you skip resistance training, here’s what happens:
• Muscle mass declines naturally with age, making everyday tasks harder.
• Bones weaken, increasing the risk of fractures and injuries.
• Your metabolism slows, making it harder to maintain your weight.
But if you prioritise resistance training:
• You’ll build and maintain muscle, which supports everything from movement to metabolism.
• Your bones will strengthen, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
• You’ll burn more calories at rest, as muscle requires more energy to maintain than fat.
And here’s the kicker:
Resistance training improves your balance, mobility, and overall confidence – things cardio alone can’t deliver.
Let’s Make This Super Simple:
1. Focus on compound movements.
• Exercises like squats, deadlifts, and push-ups work multiple muscle groups at once, maximising your effort and results.
• Think of it as getting more done in less time.
2. Lift heavy enough to challenge yourself.
• You don’t need to lift like a bodybuilder, but the weight should be heavy enough that the last few reps feel tough.
3. Prioritise proper form.
• Start with lighter weights to master the technique, then gradually increase.
• Bad form leads to injuries – and no one’s got time for that.
4. Add variety to your routine.
• Switch between free weights, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises to keep things interesting and challenge your muscles in different ways.
5. Don’t forget recovery.
• Your muscles grow and strengthen during rest, so give them time to repair with proper sleep, hydration, and mobility drills.
Why This Will Make You “Fit for Future & Family”:
Resistance training isn’t just about looking good (though that’s a bonus).
It’s about staying strong, mobile, and capable – for work, for family, and for your future self.
Imagine being able to carry your kids or grandkids without strain, or getting through a long day without feeling physically drained.
Your partner will notice your renewed energy and strength.
Your kids or grandkids will see you as someone who’s active and capable, no matter your age.
And you?
You’ll feel confident knowing you’ve built a foundation of strength that serves you for years to come.
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