As if we didn’t have enough reasons to prioritize strength in our approach to fitness, a recent review paper has shown the value of strength training for patients with fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a condition involving, among other symptoms, chronic and generalized pain in joints and muscles; it has no cure or known cause, making it a frustrating medical diagnosis. It is fairly well known that lifestyle changes (diet, activity, sleep) can positively affect fibromyalgia patients, and now the research continues to stack up suggesting that strength training in particular can produce significant reductions in symptoms and improvements in quality of life. The authors of this most recent review paper concluded: “The main results included reduction in pain, fatigue, number of tender points, depression, and anxiety, with increased functional capacity and quality of life. Current evidence demonstrates that strength training is beneficial and can be used to treat fibromyalgia.”

While you may not have fibromyalgia or know someone who does (side note: there’s a good chance you actually do know someone with FM, and just don’t know it), this is another big “pro” in the heavily-saturated pros column of the pros and cons of strength training.

It is testament to the fact that, while the barbell may not look like the tools of traditional medicine, it can be incredibly effective as a means for healing and growth. We are slowly but surely dissolving the harmful delusion that strength training is a practice reserved only for meatheads and professional athletes, and learning that movement of all kinds -- with strength training high on the list -- is for everyone.

(You can read about the results of the research review paper HERE.)

- PS

1/25/19

• Back squat - 5,5,5,5,5

Then...

• 3 rounds for quality:

• 15 KBS (AHAP)

• 150’ sled push (AHAP)