Jerry Seinfeld, Weight Lifter?
“I start off with curls. That’s good for the bicep. 10 reps, 2 sets.”
Blakley and I were watching Seinfeld reruns while we made dinner the other night.
Kenny Banya was explaining his workout regimen to Jerry over a bowl of soup that he exchanged for a Brand New Armani Suit.
Kenny asks Jerry if he works out with weights.
Jerry says: “No”.
Kenny says: “You should”.
Jerry says: “Why?”.
Kenny stares blankly realizing he doesn’t know why.
Luckily for you, me, and our clients, we know the benefits of lifting weights.
The benefits apply regardless of your chromosomal makeup, political affiliation, taste in music, or age:
Lifting weights helps you get stronger and build lean muscle. If one of your goals is to look more toned and athletic, lifting weights is mandatory.
Lifting weights boosts your metabolism, so you burn more calories even when binge-watching Seinfeld.
Lifting weights improves your bone density. Concerned about osteoporosis as you get older? Lifting weights strengthens not just your muscles but your bones, reducing your risk of fractures, should you fall.
Lifting weights improves your joint health. It also helps alleviate joint pain, increases synovial fluid in the joints, and improves mobility by reinforcing the muscles around your joints.
Lifting weights improves connective tissue strength and quality. We’re talking about tendons, ligaments, and cartilage here.
Lifting weights improves mental health and is a positive outlet for stress, which can reduce anxiety, and boost self-confidence.
Lifting weights improves insulin sensitivity, which can help prevent type 2 diabetes.
How about some common concerns with pumping iron?
Will lifting make you bulky if you’re a woman?
In short, no. Women typically don’t have the testosterone levels required to bulk up like men. Instead, lifting creates toned, defined muscles while promoting fat loss.
Plus, muscle grows slowly. There’s no chance you will wake up one day and not like what you see. #pinkypromise
Is lifting weights dangerous?
Negative. With proper technique and progression, lifting weights is safer than most other forms of exercise (including running and biking).
In fact, strength training is often prescribed to help prevent injuries and support long-term health.
If you’re lifting weights, you’re doing the right thing.
If you're not confident that you’re doing the right exercises with the right weights, hire a coach (shameless plug).
If you’re not lifting weights, I urge you to make 2025 the year you start. You won’t regret it.
Lift heavy, and be nice.
Jonathan
Even though Jerry doesn’t lift weights in the show, he does it 3 times per week for an hour in his current life.
Check out Blakley’s client Bernie. He turned 74 last week, and he’d be the first to tell you how lifting weights has transformed his life in retirement.
Give him a follow on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/berniepr/