Why these strength training routines do more than just build muscles

Push-ups teach us that true power comes from pushing against resistance — not avoiding it. (Photo: Freepik)

Strength training is not merely about building muscles; it is about building resilience, character and personalities. When we train the body with awareness, the mind becomes calmer.

As always, begin any strength training routine with a warm-up, which helps you avoid all kinds of injuries, spasms and pain. It helps the body achieve an optimal body temperature, high enough to lead to a great workout. It allows for better blood circulation to the muscles. Warm muscles increase the energy production rate, increasing reflexes and lowering the time it takes to contract a muscle.

So, begin by gently rolling the neck clockwise and anti-clockwise. This releases stored tension and improves blood flow to the brain. Roll shoulders forward and backward. It improves posture, easing out stiffness and opens the heart centre. Twist the torso side to side with relaxed arms. This awakens the spine and massages internal organs. Stretch laterally on both sides as this enhances flexibility and creates space for deeper breathing. Rotate knees gently in both directions to lubricate joints and prevent injury. Rotate hips in slow, controlled circles. Light, rhythmic jumping jacks raise the heart rate. Now, you are ready for your strength-building routines.

1. Sumo Squats: Standing wide with toes turned outward, lower into a squat and rise with control. This anchors us to the earth and gravity, making us more grounded. Keep your spine straight. With knees tracking outward, engage the core as you push up. This improves lower-body stability and strengthens thighs, glutes, hips.

2. Reverse Lunges: These remind us that sometimes stepping back gives us the strength to move forward. Step one leg backward into a lunge and return to standing on alternate legs. Keep your chest upright, front knee aligned, and push through the heel to return. This builds balance, strengthens legs, glutes, and protects the knees.

3. Push-Ups: From plank position, lower the chest and push the body up with control. Push-ups teach us that true power comes from pushing against resistance — not avoiding it. Maintain a straight line from head to heels, elbows close to the body. Fold your hands and go up and down. This routine strengthens the chest, arms, shoulders and core while boosting confidence.

4. Plank: Hold the body in a straight line, resting on forearms and toes. In the plank, we learn that stillness can be the strongest form of action. Engage your core, breathe deeply and avoid sagging or lifting hips. This improves posture and enhances endurance.

5. Seated Rowing: Using resistance bands or a rowing machine, pull elbows back while seated. Sit tall, pull shoulder blades together and control the return. Strengthens the back, improves posture and supports spinal health.

According to research, it can be quite beneficial to lift weights between 30% and 50% of your one-repetition maximum (1RM) or the heaviest weight you can lift for a single, full repetition of an exercise. This way you can increase muscle endurance.

The decision between heavy and light weights is a question of personal preference. Long-term adherence is increased when you modify your exercise regimen to suit your tastes.