We've been sold a myth that endless hours of cardio are the key to long-term health and fitness. But the reality is that cardio alone is not enough. In fact, it can even be harmful if done in excess. The key to long-term health is building and maintaining muscle mass.
Muscle is not just for bodybuilders and athletes. It's essential for overall health and longevity. As we age, our muscle mass naturally decreases, which can lead to a host of health problems, such as weakened bones, decreased mobility, and an increased risk of falls. But by building and maintaining muscle mass through strength training, we can mitigate these risks and improve our quality of life.
Not only does strength training help maintain muscle mass, but it also has a host of other health benefits. It can improve insulin sensitivity, which can help prevent or manage diabetes. It can also improve bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. As we age, we tend to lose muscle mass, which can lead to a decline in metabolic function and an increased risk of chronic disease.
Building and maintaining muscle through strength training can help slow down this process and improve metabolic function. In addition, muscle building has been shown to have a greater impact on weight management than cardio alone. Muscle tissue is metabolically active, meaning it burns more calories at rest than fat tissue. By building more muscle, we can increase our resting metabolic rate and burn more calories throughout the day, even when we're not actively exercising.
Cardio, on the other hand, has limited benefits when it comes to long-term health. While it can improve cardiovascular health, it doesn't do much to maintain muscle mass or prevent age-related muscle loss. And too much cardio can actually be harmful, leading to overuse injuries, joint pain, and even decreased immune function.
If you're looking to improve your long-term health and fitness, it's time to rethink your workout routine. Instead of endless cardio, prioritize strength training and muscle building exercises. By doing so, you'll not only look and feel better, but you'll also be investing in your long-term health and quality of life.
Comments