Weightlifting reduces heart attacks & strokes

Not excessive strength training is foundational for optimal health, especially as you get older. It’s not just about keeping your musculature strong; resistance training also benefits your heart, metabolism, cognition and mental health

Recent research shows less than an hour of strength training per week can reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke anywhere from 40% to 70%

These cardiovascular benefits were independent of aerobic exercises such as walking and running; strength training alone will lower your risk of heart attack and stroke, even if you don’t meet the recommended guidelines for aerobic activity 

Less than one hour of resistance training per week also lowers your risk of metabolic syndrome by 29% and high cholesterol by 32%, independently of aerobic exercise

Strength training also benefits your brain. In fact, there’s a strong link between muscle strength — especially leg strength — and cognitive health
 

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