According to the American Medical Association, approximately 66.3% of the US population over the age of 20 is overweight and more than a third is obese. Subsequent research has found that many foods eaten by Americans contain large amounts of fat, cholesterol, and sugar. Building muscle is one of the most effective ways to burn fat and shed excess calories.

There are actually several benefits that can be derived from lifting weights regularly. The first and most obvious benefit you will gain from lifting weights is physical development. As a result, you’ll look better, feel better, and have more self-confidence. Regular exercise has also been shown to mitigate the effects of depression.

Here are a couple of other benefits that can be derived from lifting weights:

1. Gives a boost to the immune system – Believe it or not, you will actually get sick less, less often when you lift weights regularly. This is due to increased blood circulation and the increase in white blood cells that result from weight training.

2. Lowers cholesterol levels – When you exercise, your body naturally has to burn energy to fuel your muscle gains. Part of the energy your body expends is derived from the bad fats contained in your body. Some of these fats are responsible for producing cholesterol.

3. increases flexibility – Exercising the muscles allows the body to become more flexible due to the stresses and strains that are placed on the body during physical exercise. While being more flexible may not sound like a huge benefit, greater flexibility will actually reduce the risk of injury during normal activities. People who do not exercise at all are much more likely to suffer joint and back injuries than those who lift weights regularly.