An underrated but hugely significant benefit of lifting weights

I’ve been reading Magic Pill by Johann Hari. It’s about the extraordinary benefits and disturbing risks of drugs like Ozempic, it’s been an eye-opening read.

One of the topics Hari explores is how he spent years completely disconnected from his body. For a long time, he didn’t think about what he was putting into his body—it was almost as if it was a machine he used, separate from his sense of self.

This idea of being disconnected from our bodies resonated with me, as it’s something I’ve observed in many people. We often go through life not truly appreciating or taking care of our bodies, almost as if they exist independently of us.

However, one of the most underrated benefits of resistance training is its power to reconnect us with our bodies.

When you engage in resistance training, you’re not just lifting weights or building muscle; you’re learning to contract your muscles consciously and improve your connection with your body.

This connection is crucial because it teaches you the skill of mind - muscle connection.

The skill of mind-muscle connection in weight training is about consciously engaging and feeling the specific muscles you're working during each exercise. It involves focusing on the contraction of the target muscle rather than just moving the weight from point A to point B.
 
By mastering this skill, you can ensure that each rep is purposeful, leading to better results and a stronger connection between your mind and body.

As you progress in your training, you’ll notice a heightened awareness of your body—how it moves, how it feels, and what it needs. This isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about developing a deeper understanding and appreciation for the vessel that carries you through life.

Resistance training offers a pathway to truly connect with your body, fostering a sense of unity and care that many of us may have lost along the way.