An In-Depth Look at Resistance Training

This is the second of a two-part series on resistance training.

In our last blog, we talked about resistance training and knowing when your child was ready for it.  Today we’ll provide you with deeper insight into resistance training.

What is resistance training?
In a nutshell, resistance training causes the muscles to create resistance against something, whether it’s our own body weight, large rubber bands, hand weights, or the machines in the gym.

Do I already have to have muscles to resistance train?
Resistance training can be done at any level of fitness.  Bryan Ruggles, a Physical Therapist at Indiana University Health Sports Performance names a few of the factors he considers when evaluating a client:

• How well someone can follow instructions
• How the body moves during running and jumping exercises
• In children, their physical maturity. 

Is resistance training just for athletes?
Absolutely not!  Ruggles cites new research that suggests people who start resistance training when young, and continue into adulthood, can perform daily activities with greater efficiency.

Your body’s muscles will remember how to move safely for everyday life, whether you are climbing stairs or stepping off a curb. “Take, for example, a 75-year-old lady who has done some form of resistance training all of her life,” Ruggles said. “She is much more likely to be able to reach over her head and pull a stack of dishes out of the cupboard than someone who is nearly disabled from a lack of activity,” Ruggles said.

How do I get started?
Always start at a level that challenges the body without increasing the risk for injury.  An IU Health Sports Performance Specialist can develop a routine customized just for you!

For more information contact IU Health Sports Performance.