Nevertheless, strength training has benefits that you’ll carry with you for life. You more than cover the cardiovascular benefits with all your hours in the saddle, but denser bones, lean tissue and stronger ligaments and tendons come from pushing, pressing and carrying weights.
In other words, strength training is another arrow in your quiver to fend off Father Time.
Remember: Strength training doesn’t have to be complicated, nor do you have to spend hours in the gym to reap the benefits. A simple program with exercises that focus on the big muscles groups will give you the most bang for your buck. Two days in the gym is all you need. If you’re efficient and emphasize technique, you can knock out a solid workout in less than 40 minutes.
If you’re feeling beat up from a high-volume week, reduce the weight on all the exercises. If you listen to your body and utilize some common sense, strength training should go well for you—and help your chances at a new PR.
