Brains over Brawn | How the your nervous system adapts to strength training

Are you just starting out on your strength training journey and wondering why you're already seeing gains in strength? The answer may surprise you. It turns out that initial gains in strength are mostly associated with neural improvement (coordination) rather than actual muscle hypertrophy (increase in muscle mass). We'll explain what this means and how you can make the most of these initial gains to build a foundation for future progress.

🧠 The role of neural adaptation: When you start a new strength training program, your body adapts in a number of ways, including neural adaptation. This refers to improvements in the way your nervous system communicates with your muscles, resulting in more efficient muscle recruitment and activation. These changes typically occur within the first 4-8 weeks of strength training

💪 Why this matters for strength gains: As your nervous system becomes more efficient, you'll be able to recruit more muscle fibers and generate more force with each contraction. This translates into increased strength, even before your muscles have undergone significant hypertrophy.

👩‍🏫 How to optimize neural gains: While initial strength gains are largely due to neural adaptation, there are things you can do to optimize this process and make the most of your gains:

🏋️Focus on good form: Proper form is essential for maximizing neural activation and improving muscle recruitment.

💦Increase the intensity when appropriate: By lifting heavier weights, you'll increase the demands placed on your muscles, leading to greater neural adaptation and improved strength gains.

💤 Get some rest: Adequate rest and recovery is essential for allowing your nervous system to adapt and recover.

💪While muscle hypertrophy is an important component of long-term strength gains, initial improvements in strength are largely due to neural adaptations.

At inbalance FITNESS, we're here to help you reach your goals and take your fitness journey to the next level. Our expert personal trainers can work with you to create a customized plan that fits your lifestyle and helps you reach your fitness goals.
​
#FitnessGoals #WellnessGoals #GoalSetting #seniorfitnessspecialist #seniorfitness #inbalance #inbalancefitness #beginnerworkout #beginnerfitness #injuryprevention #injuryrecovery​