Strength training with proper form – using a full range of motion – can actually IMPROVE your flexibility.
Have you ever heard that lifting weights will make your muscles less flexible? Or even “musclebound”?
Here's the truth:
Strength training with proper form – using a full range of motion – can actually IMPROVE your flexibility.
Plus, it can help you get stronger, reduce your risk of injury, and help you build stronger bones (super important as you get older).
Talk about an efficient way to cover your exercise bases!
This flexibility connection is backed up by research published in the January 2023 edition of Sports Medicine.
Scientists found that doing “externally loaded” (i.e., using weights or other resistance) exercises improved flexibility just as much as stretching exercises. 🤯
So… what does this mean for YOU?
Stretching is STILL a “must” to help you keep up your flexibility and mobility.
First, don’t skip your warmup – you can do that with bodyweight or light versions of the exercises you will be doing during your workout.
The cooldown is another “must" because it helps your body start the recovery process. It can be as simple as a walk or other low-intensity exercise.
But if you’re in a time crunch and don’t have enough time for a thorough post-workout stretch session after your strength workout, you can give yourself a pass!
The key to it all is listening to your body and using GREAT FORM on your strength exercises.
And if you want a little extra guidance, working with a coach can help you find your personal form “sweet spot” for optimal results.
Join us each week for our small group training sessions to help you build confidence and strength, learn proper exercise form, and increase your flexibility and mobility.
ABOUT MARISSA365
Hey there! My name is Maríssa Rivera-Davis (she/her). I am a GGS-certified womxn's fitness, nutrition, & wellness coach, licensed Zumba® Fitness instructor, and the founder of Her365 Fitness, a studio/gym & wellness community for womxn.
I help busy & over-stressed womxn find the time & energy to move more and eat better so they can develop self-care practices that feel good, that they enjoy, and that they can finally stick to.
My mission is to help womxn break free from the harmful cycles of dieting and the pursuit of body-image "ideals" so they feel empowered to live authentically & more joyfully in the body they have right now.
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