7 reasons to focus on building more muscle

I probably don't have to ask if you've ever thought about "losing weight" or "burning fat," but how often do you think about building muscle? If you're like most people, you probably don't give your muscles much thought until you go to pick up something heavy or try on swimmers. But here's a surprising fact: Although building muscle is usually tied to looks, your muscles are closely linked with your overall health and also with the aging process.

Generally speaking, having MORE muscle is a good thing for both your health AND staying young as you get older. So that's why I want to share 7 reasons to focus on building more muscle, starting right now:

1. You start losing muscle around the age of 30! On average, people lose around 3% to 8% each decade – and then it speeds up after you turn 60. The sooner you get started on building your muscle "bank," the better! Muscle loss is one of the TOP causes of disability for older people; they become too weak to live alone and are more prone to falls and injuries.
2. You'll build stronger bones. Did you know that many people start losing about 1% of their bone mass PER YEAR after the age of 40? Stressing your bones (when you're doing it in a healthy way through strength training!) will help boost your bone density and cut the risk of osteoporosis and fractures when you get older.
3. It can help you manage chronic conditions. Lifting weights can help you cut back on symptoms of arthritis, chronic pain, heart disease, depression, diabetes, and obesity.
4. It can help with fat loss. Strength-training workouts are an important tool for fat loss, plus they can help you keep, and maybe even build, muscle as you get leaner.
5. It can help sharpen your thinking. Studies link regular strength training and aerobic exercise with improved brain function.
6. It will improve your quality of life. Your everyday activities get easier almost immediately. Plus, it can improve your balance and protect your joints from injury.
7. It helps you keep your balance. Again, this can help you avoid slip-and-fall accidents now and as you age. Plus, having toned muscles is great for your confidence and energy level!

The sooner you get started, the sooner you'll start feeling and seeing results!