Your body is a wonderful and complex machine.
Unfortunately, many of the misconceptions and half-truths exist about how it works, especially when it comes to body fat and muscles.Â
Let's drop some facts.
The human body has three types of muscle: skeletal muscle, smooth muscle and cardiac muscle.
There are over 600 skeletal muscles in the human body, making up about 40% of total body mass.Â
So when it comes to muscle mass, the focus needs to be on building (or at least maintaining) the existing level of skeletal muscle mass.Â
Here's the facts on Skeletal Muscle
Having strong skeletal muscles makes everyday activities easier. It also reduces risk of injury when lifting, bending or stretching. When everyday activities are easier, the goal of leading a more active life becomes even more achievable.
Strengthening skeletal muscle fortifies ligaments and tendons, ensures bones are held in the correct position and prevents joints from dislocating, minimising the risk of injury.
Fatigue can occur as muscles adapt to increased, high-intensity exercise. Keep motivated, over time you feel less muscle fatigue, and have increased the overall metabolic rate.
A good level of skeletal muscle mass will result in a toned physique.
Skeletal muscle is metabolically active. Build it, and your body will burn more calories, even when the body is at rest.
More skeletal muscle mass means more insulin receptor sites, which help with the uptake and regulation of glucose (sugar) deposited in the bloodstream after eating. As 80% of glucose uptake occurs in skeletal muscle, it is easier for the body to regulate insulin levels and minimise excess fat when you have more skeletal muscle.
A good or high level of muscle mass is fast becoming recognised as the key indicator for longevity. Muscle tissue naturally declines with age and a person can lose up to 50% of their muscle mass between the ages of 20 and 90. Another reason why it's important to keep your muscle mass levels in the healthy ranges.