Go Heavy, Part I

Have a two-part entry on going heavy, the first of which I will share now--regarding weight training. Over the history of mankind, we have been forced to lift heavy things as a means of survival, but modern convenience has decreased our need to do this to sustain ourselves. I've been fortunate to have included occasional heavy lifting with the metabolic conditioning workouts I've been using over the past couple of years, and I'm doing even more of it now that I am doing so much cardio training for this half-marathon.

Did a little looking around and found these benefits attached to lifting heavy weight:

• The look that we want: larger muscles for guys, more toned muscles for ladies
• Burning of more calories and body fat while maintaining muscle (as opposed to straight cardio, which can do these things but promote muscle loss)
• Better bone health: maintained bone mass, increased bone density
• Better heart health: reduced blood pressure, improved cardio flow
• Stronger muscles = stronger connective tissues and more stable joints (which can promote pain reduction and injury prevention)
• Reduced stress and depression, increased self-esteem
• Improved overall strength (no kidding, huh?)

All this being said, a heavy lifting program should not be entered into lightly (no pun intended). We should have a plan that allows for different movements (to promote balanced gains) and correct form and technique (to promote safety and prevent injury). There are lots of good programs out there and lots of people who have done the research and know what they are talking about. I'm lucky because one of my go-to guys is Luke Halls, owner of the gym I started a couple years ago and a student of heavy lifting--he would be a great guy to consult if you are in the Jacksonville area. But if not, do your homework and find a trainer who can get you started. Of course, I would be happy to field comments or questions for any readers who are looking for ways to incorporate heavy lifting into their routines. I'm no expert, but I can steer you in the right direction. 

Fun stuff to talk about--looking forward to my own heavy lifting day this morning. Will keep you guys posted on how it's going.