Strength training builds muscle. So does using your imagination. In this Health Smarts video, fitness expert Mike Clark, DPT, explains how visualizing strength-training workouts, makes them more effective so you get stronger, faster.
Read Transcript
Hi, Dr. Clark here with a simple muscle building tip for you, think about it. There's some evidence that you can increase your strength just by thinking about your muscles getting stronger. In one study people who imagined flexing or bending their elbow for 15 minutes a day five days a week had a 13% gain in strength just after 12 weeks.
Volunteers who didn't practice these mental exercises did not see the benefit. Another study show that the people gain ankle bending power just by thinking about strengthening exercises, but of course people who actually did the exercises got bigger benefits. So why would you want to sit around around and think about a muscle for 15 minutes when you can do a full body strengthening routine in just 20 minutes a day.
Try both, do the actual physical strength routine and think your way through each move. Mindful mastering your workouts can't hurt, it can only help prevent injury and reduce stress. For more ways to get the most out of every workout, watch all our smart tips right here.
Mike Clark, DPT is CEO of the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). He is a noted lecturer, author and is entering his 11th season as physical therapist for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns.
33:37
