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I'm curious how lifting would compare to other core activities, like hiking or lumberjacking.
by mycall 7y ago
I'm curious how lifting would compare to other core activities, like hiking or lumberjacking.
- 01100011 7y agoHiking isn't generally something that builds mass. Hiking promotes a lean frame that isn't going to intimidate anyone.
- milkytron 7y agoI don’t think that’s the goal for most people. For those wanting to do enjoyable activities, hiking is a good way to get some exercise and enjoy nature, which can be as meditative as any other cardio. If muscle mass is the goal, hiking isn’t the best way to do that. But it can be healthy in a variety of ways for many people.
- 01100011 7y agoOP wondered about the differences between lifting and hiking. Please read my comment in that context. I was an avid hiker for years, so I get what you're saying. I don't think anyone is hiking to build mass. That would be silly.
- blunte 7y agoThere is something significant about learning to coordinate the firing of signals to a dozen muscles at once (and maintain those GO signals for the duration of the rep) which cannot be replicated any way other than lifting a big weight with one or more major muscle groups. Also, as an aside, for the duration of that one rep, (if the weight is sufficiently heavy for the lifter) the mind narrows focus completely - no other conscious thoughts are present at that time. This is an interesting contrast to how many of our HN-type minds usually operate.
- devbug 7y agoI love lifting for exactly this reason. It's meditative.
- sundvor 7y agoI'm reading this thread in between sets during a late night lifting session. Tired as, but I'm still giving it a shot..! Agree it's very, very good for calming my mind.
- ip26 7y agothe mind narrows focus completely Rock climbing is the same way when you're in a precarious position or executing a difficult move.
- blunte 7y agoI suppose that’s true of many things. I already recognized it from performing music, but the athletic experience had escaped me until this topic came up.
- dancek 7y agoI never quite understood what people love about lifting but this comment makes me want to try it. Cycling for a long time tends to completely clear my mind, but I don't know the feeling of "learning to coordinate" that you're talking about.