Hello amazing women! 

I want to share a personal story with you – one that revolves around overcoming muscle pain, finding my strength and embracing the incredible benefits of resistance training. 

Resisting the Resistance: My transformation story.

Stifled by the stiffness: 

You see, there were mornings when I woke up stiff and sore. My back would ache if I pushed myself too far, and I kept injuring my hamstring while jogging.   The nagging soreness often limited my activities. I worried that the joint pain was just “part of getting older,” Perhaps you can relate.

My Resistance to Resistance Training:

In my mind, being active meant immersing myself in the great outdoors, whether it was taking leisurely walks or going for a run. The idea of lifting weights or doing crunches and planks filled me with a sense of dread. Going to a gym didn’t appeal to me either and finding motivation at home seemed elusive. So, I resigned myself to doing nothing and let pain dictate my life.

A Turning Point:

Then came the fateful day when everything changed. A colleague, an avid distance runner, who I admired, shared his experience of overcoming a running injury through strength training. As I listened to his story, something clicked within me.  It was as if the universe was urging me to challenge my beliefs about resistance training and open myself up to new possibilities.

Embracing the Pros:

With a newfound determination, I decided to give resistance training another chance. I stepped foot into the gym, ready to give it a go! To my surprise, it wasn’t as daunting as I had imagined.  To ensure I was on the right track, I started physical therapy for my hamstring pain and I enlisted the help of a personal trainer. Her expertise and support were invaluable. With her guidance, I started with a set of exercises that seemed doable, I incorporated stretching and yoga into my routine, and I began my journey towards a stronger, pain-free self. And when the pandemic hit, I continued my personal training with her online in my home.

And to my Surprise:

I can’t express the joy I felt as I started witnessing the incredible changes in my life. No longer did pulled muscles or sore joints plague my running endeavors. Waking up with stiffness and soreness became a thing of the past.  Resistance training, combined with stretching and balance exercises, became the foundation of my weekly routine, and the benefits were astounding.

A Life Transformed:

Not only did my joint pain subside, but my overall well-being experienced a profound shift. I found myself standing taller and moving easier and I lost weight. I slept better and had more energy. My mood improved, and I felt a renewed sense of vitality. I felt more confident and moved with greater ease and grace.

Below are 10 ways resistance training can transform your life!

1. Reduces your injury risk: Strengthening muscles, tendons, and ligaments provides stability and support, reducing the likelihood of injuries.
2. Increases metabolism: Resistance training boosts metabolic rate, aiding in weight management and overall energy expenditure.
3. Reduces fatigue and improves sleep quality: Regular exercise enhances sleep patterns, leaving you feeling more refreshed and energized.
4. Improves performance: Whether it’s running, cycling, or any other physical activity, resistance training enhances overall performance by increasing strength and endurance.
5. Improves subjective quality of life: Engaging in resistance training promotes a sense of accomplishment, self-confidence, and improved mental well-being.
6. Increases bone mineral density in early post-menopausal years: Weight-bearing exercises help maintain and strengthen bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
7. Reduces cholesterol: Resistance training has been shown to positively impact lipid profiles, lowering cholesterol levels.
8. Increases glucose absorption: Regular strength training improves insulin sensitivity, aiding in better blood sugar control.
9. Strengthens cardiac muscle function: Engaging in resistance training improves cardiovascular health and strengthens the heart muscle.
10. Enhances overall well-being: Resistance training increases energy levels, reduces joint pain, and improves mobility, allowing you to enjoy life to the fullest.