Augment in muscle strength is good for health; however, increase in muscle power may lengthen the lifespan of a person. A study conducted by Professor Claudio Gil Araújo, director of research and education at Exercise Medicine Clinic — CLINIMEX in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil suggests the same theory.
Muscle power differs from muscle strength as it relies on generating force and velocity while synchronizing movement.
Explaining the benefits of muscle strength Prof. Araújo said that this study is the first to look specifically at muscle power, the previous studies examined the benefits of increasing muscle strength in relation to life expectancy.
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The professor said, “Rising from a chair in old age and kicking a ball depend more on muscle power than muscle strength, yet most weight-bearing exercises focus on the latter.”
Prof. Araújo also discussed on the ways to increase muscle power. First, it is significant to choose a weight that is neither easy to lift nor so huge that the person cannot lift it at all.
Focus on doing 1 to 3 sets of 6 to 8 repetitions each while moving the weight as quickly as possible. Slowly return the weight to its initial position each time, and rest between sets.
It is also vital to choose exercises for both the upper and lower body and to choose different ones each time to avoid tediousness and burnout. If a weight becomes too heavy or an exercise becomes too difficult, reduce the repetitions or weight to prevent injury.
Of course, it is best to consult a doctor before boarding on any exercise routine, and it is necessary to pay attention to how it feels. Too much pain is dangerous.