If you believe that lifting heavy is the only way to see benefits, think again.
According to a new study, you can see many benefits and changes in your body, by lifting lighter weights.
Although light weights are associated with building endurance and not so much strength, there are plenty of reasons why lifting lighter weights may actually be better for your body.
Here are some powerful benefits you may see when opting for a lighter weight:
1. Getting Stronger and Better Endurance
By doing more reps at a lighter weight you will increase your muscle endurance.
You will also get stronger and can build muscles (if that’s your goal) when you train to failure (the point where you can’t lift anymore). Although it may take a little bit longer to fatigue using lighter weights, the effort will lead to muscle endurance, strength and size growth.
2. Better Range of Motion
The amount of movement around a specific joint or body part called the range of motion (ROM), is very important for building stronger, more defined muscles.
Lifting heavier may shorten your ROM and reduce the amount of strength you can expect to see.
However, using lighter weights may improve your flexibility, therefore allowing the muscle to move through the entire ROM easier, giving you better results.
3. Risk for Injury Decreases
Lifting heavy may increase your risk for injury since you’re placing a heavier load on smaller muscles and connective tissue that may not be ready for it.
The risk for injury decreases when using lighter weights, thanks, in part, to better form and lifting technique.
4. Everyday Tasks Become Easier
Lifting lighter weights may make it easier to do everyday tasks. You may find it easier to carry groceries, do gardening, walk, hike, or even just play with your kids.
Although most people believe lifting heavy weights is the only way to build stronger muscles, it may not be.
Lifting lighter weights has many benefits and will help build both strength and endurance. It will also help to train in a full ROM, reduce the risk of injury and make doing everyday tasks a little bit easier.
Your coach
Michał