Strength training can be intimidating, but it has a huge range of benefits for your health, confidence, and even your mental state. Even if you feel like strength training isn’t the most necessary part of your workout routine, you shouldn’t ignore it. Here are some of the benefits that strength training can bring athletes.
- Increasing Your Strength
This might seem like an obvious point, but strength is the foundation of almost every sport in existence. Whether you’re a long-distance runner, a basketball player, or a wrestler, everyone can benefit from being stronger. Even if you’re not working on skills that are specific to your chosen sport, you’re still going to benefit from the results.
- Preventing Injury
Injuries can be devastating for athletes, especially on a professional level. Strength training can make your muscles and tendons more resilient and prepare your body for the stresses that it’s going to undergo while you’re in the game. Protecting your body should be your first concern, and many coaches will insist on some form of strength training in your routine because of this factor.
- Increasing Performance
Strength training programs can help you focus on your speed, agility, balance, and durability. All of these factors are assets to your overall sports performance. It can lay a foundation for you to reach new heights in your sports career.
- Building an Athletic Foundation
Strength training also helps you develop basic motor skills, coordination, and body awareness – all of which are essential no matter what sport you’re into. This allows you to work on the fundamentals alongside your sport-specific training.
- Self Esteem
If you’re just starting out as an athlete, strength training can help you increase your confidence and self-esteem. It can also help you develop your focus and dedication to your sport, helping you stay in the game longer. Self-esteem can also be translated to other areas of your life, making it an invaluable asset in your social life, relationships, and even your career.