Sixty-day hiatus from weightlifting: Physical transformations in the body revealed
In the world of fitness, intensity is a key driver in delivering results. A new study suggests that strength training, particularly maximal loading, can be as effective as cardio-based activity in reducing body fat percentage. However, one individual's journey tells a different story.
This individual, who once thrived on heavy weightlifting, decided to take a different path. They swapped their dumbbells for reformer Pilates and barre equipment. This change was prompted by a desire for lower-impact workouts, seeking a more balanced approach to fitness.
Pilates, known for its precise movements, is one of the best exercise methods for increasing stability and building better posture. It works your stabilizer muscles, including ones in the core, back, glutes, and hips, helping you work muscle groups you didn't even know existed.
Despite maintaining their eating habits, walking the dog, and engaging in light weightlifting once a week, the individual has noticed an increase in body fat since quitting heavy weightlifting. This highlights the importance of high-intensity workouts in maintaining a lean physique.
CrossFit, which the individual used to do, combines strength training and cardio, and promotes EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption), temporarily elevating the metabolic rate. Typically, with higher-intensity sessions like CrossFit or powerlifting, you don't need to train every day for gains.
The switch to Pilates and barre has brought about some positive changes. The individual has noticed improvements in consistency and motivation for working out. They've also experienced enhanced flexibility, reduced joint pain, and increased mental calmness and focus.
The article does not specify the author, but it suggests alternative walking workouts that build lower body strength and burn calories. It also emphasises the importance of recovery in the muscle growth process, stating that low-impact workouts can be programmed more frequently without overtraining.
Interestingly, the individual found that they could still perform low-impact workouts even during low energy or sluggish periods. They have no plans to change their exercise routine, which now includes Pilates and yoga, that they can do as much as five or six times a week without feeling overtrained.
In conclusion, while weightlifting can deliver impressive results, the journey towards a healthier lifestyle often involves experimentation and finding what works best for the individual. For this individual, the shift from heavy weightlifting to Pilates and barre training has brought about physical and mental benefits that they are happy to continue.
