Weightlifting doesn’t just generate big muscles. There are other uplifting reasons why people do it, too.

In fact, weightlifting has many benefits that can improve a person’s everyday life. Two notable ones include an increased metabolism and more bone density, which can assist in the breakage of bones. It can also reduce the risk of future illnesses, such as heart disease and diabetes.

But, not only are there physical benefits, there’s also mental benefits, too. Studies have shown that weightlifting helps regulate such hormones as dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin. When in balance, a person typically has a more optimistic outlook on life, more energy to tackle new situations, and less of a tendency to become depressed. The key, however, is to not dive in head first. Instead, set personal challenges and goals. Doing so can teach self-discipline and the desire to work harder and better. Both mental and physical stamina cannot be achieved over night either. As with anything, it takes time.

Sophomore football player Rey Deloya agrees. “There’s a lot of physical and mental benefits,” noting that the mental health was the biggest part of it for him. “You learn to push past your limits…you learn to persevere through things.”  Deloya goes on to address the benefits he has personally experienced. “I lost a lot of weight. I became stronger. I became more comfortable with myself– and, you know, it just helped me become a better person.” 

Fellow Sophomore and teammate Kyle Sommer chimed in with his thoughts, as well. “There are multiple factors to weightlifting.” As with Deloya, the mental aspect was most notable.  And, Sommer even noted how his improved mental game translated into other aspects of life. “You have better results in sports, lifting, and anything you really want.” 

Coach Romison Saint-Louis stresses that having a healthy state of mind is essential to keeping one’s head in the game. Exercise in any form is one of the best ways to achieve that. “It helps with cognitive functions such as memory, as well as boosting one physically and emotionally.” Furthering that point, he adds his personal testimony: “It has really changed my body and changed just really everything! It has been really beneficial for me.” 

Don’t feel the need to need to start right away with a full routine. Instead, check out some online beginner ones –such as Healthline’s   But, getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day can show huge differences in not only muscle tone but also mental outlook.