Since my 20’s, I have wanted Angela Basset’s arms. But between doctoring and mothering, I always felt like I needed more time (than I had) to get those sculpted arms. So, I became perfectly content with my ‘normal’ arms. I likely would have stayed content, except I noticed a ‘jiggle’ one day.
You know what I’m talking about. That jiggle on your underarm when you’re holding it up. Not a big deal, but kinda a big deal to me. It wasn’t my first time seeing it, but now in my 40’s, without the inherent firmness of youth and with decreasing skin elasticity, that jiggle just hit differently.
I decided that now was the time to get my Angela Basset arms! The challenge for me was that cardio and activities that promote relaxation are my jam. Think meditation, Tai Chi, Yoga, cycling, and napping. I love napping. If I could become a competitive napper, I would. But lifting weights, was new to me and felt like the opposite of relaxation.
We had 2-pound weights around my house, but I’m competitive and was sure I could do more, so I purchased 5-pound weights. When I took the weights out of the box, I was surprised at how heavy they were. I also felt some kinda way about the fact that 5-pound weights were heavy to me.
That was the moment that I knew that while the jiggle and the desire to have Angela Basset’s arms were what drove me to start lifting weights, it would be the desire to become stronger that would keep me there!
So, while you’re here, let’s explore the awesome world of strength training and its incredible benefits. All backed by science!
Power Up: Strength training makes you feel strong and capable. From effortlessly carrying heavy groceries to running around with your kids, it enhances your daily activities. Plus, if you’re into sports, it can boost your performance in those requiring speed, power, and strength.
Rock-Solid Bones: Weight-bearing exercises strengthen your bones, making them less prone to fractures and osteoporosis as you age.
Happy Hormones: Get those endorphins flowing! Strength training can improve your mood and reduce anxiety, making you feel fantastic.
Brain Gain: Your brain will love strength training too! It can enhance cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline. Keep that brain sharp!
Happy Heart: Your heart will thank you for strength training! It can lower blood pressure, bad cholesterol and improve blood circulation, keeping your ticker in great shape.
Blood Sugar Savior: Keep those blood sugar levels in check with strength training. It helps increase insulin sensitivity and may reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
Stay Balanced: Strengthening your body through training means a lower risk of falling, especially as you age. Talk about staying on your feet and rocking life!
Injury Prevention: Incorporating strength training means less chance of getting injured. It enhances your muscles, tendons, and ligaments, providing protection around your major joints.
Flexibility Booster: Surprise! Strength training can actually make you more flexible by increasing your joint range of motion. Get ready to stretch those limits.
Confidence Booster: Say hello to a boost in self-esteem! Overcoming challenges and appreciating your body’s strength can work wonders for your confidence.
Burn Baby Burn: Get ready to burn those calories efficiently! Building muscle revs up your metabolism, so you burn more calories even at rest. And guess what? The calorie-burning party continues for up to 72 hours after your strength-training workout. How cool is that?
Bye-Bye Belly Fat: No more worries about stubborn belly fat! Strength training has your back in reducing abdominal and total body fat. Goodbye, chronic disease risks!
Look Leaner: As you build muscle and shed fat, you’ll notice a leaner appearance. Muscles take up less space than fat, so even if the scale doesn’t move much, you’ll see those inches vanish.
Quality of Life Upgrade: Enjoy life to the fullest with strength training. It can improve physical and mental well-being, making every day better.
So, let’s grab those dumbbells and get to work, whether you’re starting at 2-pound weights (like me) or ready for much more. Whether you’re following along to free Youtube strength training videos at home, rocking with Peloton instructors, or hiring a personal trainer and hitting the gym. Even if you love your jiggle and aren’t looking for Angela Basset arms, strength training has incredible benefits. 🔥
Dr. Kanika is a Physician, Assistant Professor of Medicine, and best-selling author of “Diversity is not a Dirty Word.” She is the Founder of Invest Inclusion, where she re-imagines health and serves as a health & well-being strategist.
