I've been working on an idea lately, based on a few studies I've seen. A number of new studies have linked resistance training with increased insulin sensitivity/glucose disposal. This got me thinking... what if the "purpose" of resistance training is really to empty out the body's glcogen stores?
This takes some more explanation. Usually, the purpose or outcome measured with resistance training studies is muscle mass - did the training result in increased muscle mass. But building muscle is often a lengthy process, and some people really can't build that much muscle at all. So is there any benefit to using muscles against resistance if it doesn't lead to an increase in muscle mass?
I'm starting to think yes, and that by using muscles against resistance and emptying out glycogen stores, the risk of diabetes, insulin resistance, etc., is reduced, regardless of whether any new muscle mass is built or not.
This would suggest that more moderate resistance-training programs, or even bodyweight exercises, may provide important health benefits.
