Looking to Jump Into Weight Training? Know the Facts First

Weight training can be described as a type of strength training whose main aim is to improve strength and build skeletal muscles. Training with weights utilizes the force of gravity with the help of dumbbells, weight bars or weight stacks. The force of gravity opposes the muscle force generated through eccentric and concentric contraction. This exercise also utilizes various specialized equipment that target development of specific muscle groups. The use of such equipment also introduces a variety of movements in the weight training exercise regime.

Many people confuse weight training with bodybuilding, power-lifting and strongman. Although all these deal with lifting weights, the difference is that weight training is a form of exercise while all the others are sports. Actually, it forms a part of any training regimen of an athlete. Another area that confuses many people is the difference between weights and other types of exercise. First, this form of exercise falls under the strength training exercises, which includes all exercises that are aimed at increasing physical strength. It also uses weights compared to the others, which utilize elastic and muscular resistance to increase strength.

The other forms of exercises fall under different categories. For instance, aerobics fall under endurance training, while yoga and pilates fall under the flexibility categories. Weight training is one of the forms of exercise that has the longest history. Evidence of this can be found in many ancient writings, which describe the fascination of man with physical abilities. In ancient Greece, there was also a legend of a famous wrestler, Milo of legend, would carry a newborn calf on his back every day until it was fully-grown. This serves as a clear description of the long history of progressive resistance training.

Other historical evidences of weight training include sculptures from ancient Greece depicting lifting feats and the "Meels" from ancient Persia which was also known as Indian club. This ancient exercise uses the same basic principles used in strength training. These include manipulation of various repetitions, tempo, sets, exercise types and the weight. This helps in achieving the desired increase in endurance, strength, size and shape of muscles. Usually the sets and repetitions are co-related. For instance, the number of repetitions in the sets will determine the weight that will be used.

Weight training also includes the use of different machines and equipment such as dumbbells, barbells, stacks and pulleys. Body weight is also added to the weight sources for this form of training. A good example is whereby one is undertaking push-up and chin-up exercises. Finally, good form is required when performing the exercises. This will ensure that only the required muscle group will be involved in moving the weight.

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