BODY WEIGHT TRAINING | Our Weight Is Our Friend
ADD BODYWEIGHT TRAINING TO YOUR “FITNESS TOOLBELT”
Whatever your training goals, body weight training is a very effective training tool; either as an addition to your workout or even as a workout all by itself.
IS BODY WEIGHT TRAINING EFFECTIVE?
YES. Body weight training is extremely effective. Chin-ups, Dips, Planks, Leg Raises…these are just a few excellent body weight exercises that will lead to real results, real strength. Is Body Weight Training more effective then weighted training? I don’t think this is a YES/NO question… it doesn’t have to be… body weight exercises and weight training can be combined into the same workout very effectively. BOTH training styles are useful, BOTH can make you very strong, and BOTH can be a part of your fitness program, When you don’t have your barbells, dumb bells, and machines…you always have your body weight.
WHY MIX IN BODY WEIGHT TRAINING?
Body weight exercises like chin-ups are a key exercise when building muscle and strength. Body weigh training is also very convenient. When you are conscious of bodyweight training as an option there is no excuse or reason you can’t get your workout in. No longer are excuses like “If only I had a gym…” , “If only I had more time to train…” , “If only I…” acceptable. Body weight training can be done anytime, anywhere and without gym equipment…what a great tool in your fitness tool belt.
WHAT KIND OF BODY WEIGHT TRAINING?
There are an unlimited number of variations and type of body weight training. We are all familiar with push-ups, sit-up… Here are a few body weight exercises I like for building muscle and mixing in with weight training.
1) Chin/ Pull Up – All Variations: Close Grip, Wide Grip, Palms In, Palms Out…Chin-ups are tough, don’t expect to be doing 10
2) Dips – Great for shoulders, tri’s, and chest…what more could you want?
3) Inverted Row – This will get your back and shoulders shredded…my favorite.
4) Hanging Leg Raise – Core, Abs, Back…it’s a no brainer.
5) Plank –Anyone who has done a Adrenaline Class knows about planks…do a workout or mix in plank variations to your workout.
6) Wall Sit – I think the wall sit is the most under-rated bodyweight exercise. This is a great way to end your workout, no matter what you are doing that day. Time yourself each workout and see how much you improve…also see how much your legs improve.
Next time your in the gym and want to mix it up…do some body weight. Next time your at home and don’t feel like leaving the house for a workout…do some body weight. Next time the gym is closed…do some body weight. Next time you don’t have time for a full workout…do some body weight.
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