pow⋅er: great or marked ability to do or act; strength; might; force.Power is an obvious essential part of the motivation and results of exercise. It’s basic physics; power in equals power out. Using your might to lift a heavy weight will result in a stronger, bigger muscle. Pushing your legs harder in a sprint will get you moving faster.
However, “power” is a concept that can relate to so many more facets of your exercise plan and also in the results you get; not only the physical and exterior results, but also the interior and mental ones.
Power lifting
Power lifting has become standardized to three key exercises or events: the squat, the bench and the dead lift. The term “Power Lifting” actually refers to the competitive event consisting of these exercises, but the name is itself is very significant. While performing a squat, a bench press or a dead lift, one is exerting their power against gravity and this action will result in the reaction of increasing power. These are some of the most important exercises one can do to improve overall body or core strength and power.
Power Squat
One very specific concept in fitness is the Power Squat. Often, this term is used to distinguish its difference from the Olympic squat. The power squat is a slightly less deep squat than the Olympic version and promotes strength, as the name may denote, over range of movement.
Will Power
One cannot reach their highest level of fitness without a true commitment. Will power is not only the ability to resist indulging in a piece of cake when you know you should not but also the capability to commit to a workout on a when you might rather sit on the couch and watch TV instead.
Power Foods
Lean proteins like chicken and salmon. Whole grains and oatmeal. Fresh fruits and vegetables like peaches and spinach. Healthy fats and oils like walnuts and olive oil. These are all power foods. It is important to consider that the foods that you eat are fuels for your body. If you put in simple sugars, you may get a short burst, but you will soon crash and lose your power. Foods that sustain energy and have a positive effect on your mental attitude and physical abilities are power foods.
Power Nap
There is no substitute for rest. “Naps” are good when you really need some extra rest but there is no substitute for a good night’s sleep. If you don’t allow your body the rest that it needs on a daily basis, there is really just no making it up. To ensure that you will be operating at peak power performance, make sure to get the rest that you need every day.
Empowerment
A healthy body makes you look and feel good. Low energy and feeling dumpy will do nothing for your self-esteem and the attitude that you project to the world. Health is empowerment, both mental and physical.
The Power of Exercise
You may have heard of some of these common concepts as they relate to fitness and exercise. Power is something that is not only an important input to your exercise plan, but a key result you can get in return. By devoting yourself to give power to your exercise and fitness routine, the results will be tenfold.
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