The Case for Strength and Conditioning

Scientific evidence continues to tell us that strength and conditioning are keys for staying young, healthy, and fit.  When a person is strong and in shape, their brain and body function more optimally, they get sick less often, they reduce their risk of serious illness, they stave off the affects of aging, and they look good and feel great.

What is not to love about that?  Makes me wonder why so many people make choices each and every day that diminish their strength and conditioning.  They choose to put exercise on the back burner while they address some other priority.  You know the reasons -  there's no time, there is too much to do, there are other people to take care of, it’s too hard.  You may be uttering them yourself.  I know I do.  But the key here is to continually make choices that build your strength and conditioning.  You don’t have to “get it right” all at once.  But you do need to build a routine that consistently moves you in the direction of getting strong and in shape.

In case you are wondering what Strength and Conditioning is – read on!

Strength and Conditioning is a specialized fitness strategy that optimizes muscular strength and cardiovascular conditioning.  Athletes from virtually all sports have a strength and conditioning regimen to achieve higher levels of athletic performance.  I happen to believe (and have experienced in my own life) that we all are athletes (in life, at work, in our personal lives).  And even without athletic pursuits, an individual can benefit tremendously from a strength and conditioning exercise program.

When you undertake a Strength and Conditioning program, you will most likely work more intensely than you have in the past.  But you are also working more efficiently, therefore, using time more effectively and getting greater results.  Your workout program is tied to specific goals rather than to a general statement of being healthier and more fit.  Your program may be about improving specific health factors like blood pressure, cholesterol.  Or you may take on physical goals like body composition, running a race, having the stamina and physical focus for aggressive business goals.  You are building full body strength, addressing any specific physical weakness or vulnerability, and increasing your cardiovascular fitness.

Most anyone without significant medical or cardiovascular limitations can take on a strength and conditioning program.  The goal is to optimize your results within the safe boundaries of your physical and medical circumstances.

Bodies are transformed, but individuals who are getting strong and in shape also experience increased confidence, focus, and vitality.  They have more energy and find a more positive outlook on life.  And while specific physical and fitness goals are achieved (e.g. weight loss, toning, reducing blood pressure and stress, improving cholesterol), many come to realize that the goals are even greater than these.  The work becomes about self-confidence and self-reliance, focus and greater performance, more stamina, conquering illnesses, and being a “better” version of yourself.

I encourage you, if you have not already, to start a strength and conditioning program.  Of course, check with your doctor or other medical professional before starting your program if it has been awhile since you have worked hard physically.

I would also seek out a fitness expert.  Even though I am a personal trainer and an experienced athlete, I have worked with personal trainers for the past 10 years. My trainers have taught me a great deal - coached me on technique, pushed me to achieve more, kept me safe, and been trusted advisors as I pushed my body.   Plus it is just plain fun to have someone cheering you on and keeping you motivated.  My trainers are my coaches and my friends, and I like being able to take on whatever they give me.  It keeps me testing my maximum and finding my limits.

To your strength!

Pam

Partner, Strand Fitness

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