Muscles seems to have a surprisingly negative reputation. It's common to hear guys say they don't want to get "too bulky" and girls that don't want to build muscle because they fear looking "manly".
But you need not worry anymore! For I am here today to tell you that if you're not actively and consistently training to build muscle or look big and bulky, it will NEVER EVER happen. Any human with a muscular physique has to work really hard to build and maintain their muscle mass. That's why athletes, bodybuilders, dancers, ect.. spend so much of their time practicing and training. Unless you are a genetic prodigy that gains muscle insanely fast, you don't need to worry about picking up some weights.
Now, don't think I'm saying everyone needs to spend that much of their time and effort at the gym or doing physical activity. Everyone has their own preference on what kind of exercises, how long they want to spend doing them, and what their ultimate goals are. That being said, it's not important how you choose to exercise, just that you do exercise.
When you exercise, you'll be either building muscle or increasing endurance, usually both. Each are vital for one's overall health. Like I said before, it doesn't matter how you choose workout, BUT always make sure you know the correct form for each movement to avoid injury.
So you have your exercises, you know how to perform them, what's next? Muscle building and strengthening! Now wait, don't freak out and tell me you don't want muscle.. Because here is a list of benefits muscle has in our bodies.. and it's not all about aesthetics. ;)
More muscle = faster metabolism - Ever see athletes or big body builders eat whatever they want and still stay shredded? It's the magic of muscle.
Much less risk of injury - Your whole body will become much stronger, including joints and bones. Leaving you less at risk of strains, sprains, or broken bones.
Toned look - Here is the aesthetic comment.. but honestly, who doesn't want to feel confident and comfortable with their body?
Builds better posture & reduces stiffness and pains - 80% of the population experiences lower back pain.. The solution is in moving and strengthening the muscles, to allow the optimal movement our bodies are made for.
Boosts energy - Moving your muscles, getting that blood flowing, utilizing your capabilities puts your body in a state of alertness. Get ready to rumble!
Improved mobility, flexibility, and ability - Without exercise, muscle degrades as we age. I mean, it will still soften despite working out, but it slows the process immensely.
Exercising and maintaining muscle is anti-aging and a huge life hack in my opinion. There are a lot of stigmas behind the whole health and fitness scene, you hear so many contradicting opinions. That every little thing has to look a certain/specific way. But I've generally found most are marketing schemes. The simplest version out there is this:
Exercise because your body needs it. It doesn't matter where or how, just get moving. Don't over-eat or under-eat, give your body what it needs.
Now quit being scared and go out and build some muscle!
Change your life for the better.
It's all up to you. ;)
Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed!
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~Happy Healthy Training