Why some men don't strength train?

Author: Brian Waldo MS CSCS CES PN WLS FNS MATjs, TFW

In over 30 years of working in the health and fitness industry, one thing I have realized is that getting yourself to the gym is difficult mentally for many men and women alike. Some of the reasons may be similar, yet for men I believe it is even a little more challenging at times. Specifically when it comes to strength training, which by the way is the fountain if youth if there is one, many men often just don't get engaged and stay engaged.

There are several reasons why some men may choose not to engage in strength training. Here are five common factors:

1. Lack of Time: Many men feel that their schedules are too busy, making it difficult to find time for regular strength training sessions. Work, family responsibilities, and other commitments can take precedence over fitness.

2. Intimidation or Lack of Knowledge: The gym environment can be intimidating, especially for those who are new to strength training. Men may feel unsure about how to use equipment correctly or worry about being judged by others, leading to avoidance.

3. Perceived Complexity: Some men may believe that strength training is too complicated or requires a specific program, equipment, or expertise that they do not possess. This perception can deter them from starting or engaging in a consistent routine.

4. Preference for Other Activities: Many men may prefer cardiovascular exercises, sports, or other physical activities that they find more enjoyable. They might prioritize activities like running, cycling, or team sports over strength training.

5. Fear of Injury: Concerns about injury can be a significant deterrent. Men may worry that they might hurt themselves while lifting weights or performing exercises, particularly if they lack proper guidance or experience.

Addressing these concerns through education, support, and creating a welcoming environment can encourage more men to incorporate strength training into their fitness routines. We have a course for men that is 12 weeks long and instructed by Coach Kevin Tamte! If you are curious about this group course or 1\1 training to get started contact Coach Kevin here at https://ohptfw.lpages.co/mens-12-week-2

Myths & Youth Strength Training

Summer Is Here!   What are you kids doing for summer? 

Are you unsure if your child should be lifting weights or doing a program at a training center?  What I can share is that YES they should be! In the following message I will share my top 5 reasons why kids should be active and participate in regular physical activity or a conditioning program.  I also want to share a few myths about youth training you should know.

Top 5 reasons why both your kids and you should say yes to regular strength and conditioning:

1) Your child's health.  Statistics would tell you that more than ever children are suffering from metabolic disorders. Why?  Poor nutrition and an overall lack of activity.  Simply put, make them eat a healthy diet and move their bodies.

2) Injury prevention.  Is your child an athlete?  If so, a properly prepared strength and conditioning program can reduce injuries significantly and make your child more resilient.

3) Improved mental health.  We also are in a time due to social media, gaming and technology that more kids have significant feelings of loneliness and depression/anxiety disorders.  Exercise is medicine.

4) Confidence building.  Research will clearly show that any child who is actively involved in a properly executed fitness or strength and conditioning program​ will have more confidence mental strength to get through difficult things.  A great gift to give your child.

5) Training will change the mindset.  Training is not just a gym thing.  It encompasses every aspect of life.  When in a quality program. they will instill the other areas of sleep, nutrition, recovery.. and mindset.  All valuable to be successful in a healthy productive life.

Common myths about youth strength and conditioning that were recently published by the National Strength and Conditioning Association ( a highly reputable certifying body in strength and conditioning) :

1) Strength training stunts growth.. Actually, a properly managed strength and conditioning program does not stunt growth and fosters proper muscular development, healthy blood pressure, healthy blood sugar levels and improved body composition.  Overall, improved health is the gift!  Being knowledgeable in fitness is a gift for life.

2)Strength training is not safe.  Again, a properly managed program is very safe.  In fact as sporting\physical fitness data is tracked, it is one of the safest sporting activities kids or adults can participate in.  This is proven by research and data that has been tracked over time.

3) Youth should only focus on cardiovascular (HIIT style) classes.  There is nothing wrong with doing HIIT style exercise, however, proper balance in any fitness program should include strength training.  The difference being the challenge to the neuro muscular system and improved soft tissue resilience for tendons, muscles, ligaments and joints that strength training can provide.

4) Strength training leads to bulky muscles.  Depending on the design of a program, hypertrophy can be a part of some phases of a program.  However, strength training in its purest sense is more of a neuromuscular training.  With high volumes of work and years of training increases in muscle girth or hypertrophy is possible.  However, not as common and easily done as most people may think.

5) Strength training is only for athletes.  This myth is very commonly accepted and could not be more wrong.  Strength training is highly beneficial for all ages and for those not in sports.  If anything it may be more important if there are not other forms of physical activity regularly in the child's life.

6) Strength training will limit flexibility.  Again, another myth that has been proven wrong.  This is not just for children, but also true for adults.  (Hey, it is never to late to get started)  

7) Strength training will limit skill development.  In a world of youth sports becoming more and more specialized, this myth also could not be more wrong.  Strength training has been proven again and again to enhance mobility, speed, power generation, coordination, throwing and kicking velocity, balance and enhance skill development quicker than simply practicing more of a sport that the athlete already plays frequently.

Now is the time to get started.  Waiting until next year or next season is just procrastination and limiting the opportunity to improve.  Find a path to get started!  If we can help with that please let us know.  Reach to us at www.ohponline.net​

Also, please share this with someone who may have interest. You can be the difference maker for a child and his\her\their future.