Advanced Training Essentials Top three fitness training flow-on effects: 1. Increased ability to participate With improved fitness often stems increased self-confidence, further motivation to do and be more, and a greater willingness to actively engage in additional physical activities. Once positive physical changes and more mental energy begin to manifest through regular exercise, we begin to see the many possibilities available to us and, once hooked into a cycle of regular engagement with our community and with others, we may begin to discover our many previously hidden capabilities and talents. Regular exercise and the results which inevitably follow allow us to more readily explore our full physical potential. 2. Greater functional strength and endurance Aside from any specific training benefits to be gained, becoming fitter and stronger will improve our day-to-day performance, to make life a great deal easier. From getting out of bed in the morning, to walking the dog and washing the car, a strong, vital physique will significantly enhance the extent to which we may perform any task. The greater functionality and staying power gained from regular exercise will improve the quality of all that we do. In addition, with our stronger bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, we are less likely to injure ourselves doing it. 3. Improved mental health So closely connected are looking and feeling good that exercise could be prescribed as an adjunct or indeed primary treatment for mild depression. The saying ‘sound body, sound mind’ is no truer than when viewed as a major flow-on effect of physical fitness training. Whenever we exercise, endogenous endorphins (which could be likened to naturally produced morphine, albeit a less potent form) are produced by the central nervous system and pituitary gland to signal a state of mental relaxation to inhibit training-induced pain. This analgesic effect may extend well beyond the final rep of a grueling workout. In addition, regular exercise bolsters our supply of brain neurotransmitter chemicals serotonin and dopamine, the same compounds that are beneficially modulated through anti depressant medications. Further, looking good and improving our health increases our self-esteem and confidence and gives us a sense of purpose and accomplishment, all necessary for sound mental wellbeing. The mind controls our thoughts, feelings and actions – all that we do and all that we are. By strengthening the mind through physical fitness training, we become more resilient and better equipped to meet life’s many challenges. About the author David Robson is a specialist health and fitness writer who has written professionally for such publications as Muscle & Fitness magazine, FLEX, bodybuilding, New Zealand Fitness, Inside Fitness, ALLMAX Nutrition, and Status Fitness magazine. As Founder and Managing Director of the New Zealand Wheelchair Body Building Federation (NZWBBF), Fit Futures Charitable Trust (both not for profit organisations set up to provide sporting and exercise options for people with physical disabilities), and Advanced Personal Training, David also doubles as a trainer, health and fitness educator and mentor to both established elite athletes and novice trainees alike. A competitive bodybuilder, David believes in leading by example.
Posted on: Mon, 22 Sep 2014 21:13:55 +0000
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