Why Building Muscle Is the Best First Step in Fitness

I always get this question when meeting with potential clients about starting a fitness routine. With so many choices these days, it's not hard to see why achieving a fitness goal can be so daunting sometimes. Should I lift weights, run, or play tennis? Muscle building stands out as a straightforward and beneficial choice for anyone, regardless of age. Here are three compelling reasons why:

Muscle Mass As A Health Predictor

Muscle plays a key role in maintaining protein metabolism, which is beneficial for the tissues and organs to prevent chronic diseases. Both being overweight and underweight pose health risks, but increasing muscle mass enhances resting energy expenditure and improves metabolic health. Additionally, higher muscle mass is associated with lower all-cause mortality, especially in older adults who are at risk for sarcopenia. As people age, a lack of strength and muscle can lead to frailty and mobility issues.

High Return On Investment With Manageable Workouts

Muscle-building-style workouts, a form of resistance training, are scalable and allow for easy progression. Modern gyms provide machines and equipment that prioritize stability, maximizing muscle tension and promoting growth. A consistent workout plan that focuses on progressive sets and reps, with adequate rest periods, makes workouts more manageable. A beginner can see visible gains within 4-6 weeks, 3 times a week with just a short 20-minute session. Fundamental movements like squats, hinges, pushes, and pulls are part of human function and simple to learn. While sports like running or tennis can build muscle, they require specific skills and offer less targeted muscle growth.

Gym Is Easily Accessible Anywhere

Gyms are widely accessible in most locations compared to tennis courts or swimming pools. In America, nearly every town has a gym, and it's easy to set up a basic gym in your garage with minimal investment. Some bands and weights are sufficient to start. Traveling? Simply choose a hotel with a gym to maintain your routine.

While multiple exercise options exist, a focused goal like muscle building provides a simple, effective, and accessible way to embark on your fitness journey. By prioritizing muscle development, you enhance your overall health and establish a solid foundation for lifelong fitness.

Thank you for reading. I hope to hear from you about any thoughts or questions that you have. Write to me at [email protected] or subscribe to my newsletter