"The first wealth is health." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

If you're looking for a reason to get serious about building muscle, here's a compelling one: muscle can actually save your life.

While we tend to associate muscle with aesthetics and athletic performance, the benefits of having a strong, muscular body go far beyond those areas. In fact, research suggests that muscle mass can have a major impact on overall health and longevity.

Here are just a few of the ways that building muscle can help keep you healthy and increase your chances of living a long and active life.

1. Protecting Against Injury

One of the most obvious benefits of having strong muscles is that they can help protect against injury. This is especially true for older adults, who are more susceptible to falls and other accidents. Studies have found that older adults with more muscle mass are less likely to experience fractures and other injuries, and are better able to recover if they do.

2. Boosting Metabolism

Muscle tissue is metabolically active, meaning it requires energy to maintain. This means that the more muscle mass you have, the higher your resting metabolic rate (the number of calories your body burns at rest). This can make it easier to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity and related health conditions.

3. Improving Insulin Sensitivity

Another benefit of building muscle is improved insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels, and when we become resistant to its effects (as is the case in type 2 diabetes), it can lead to a host of health problems. Studies have found that building muscle can help improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of diabetes and other related conditions.

4. Lowering Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and other health problems. Studies have found that regular strength training can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension, even more so than aerobic exercise alone.

5. Supporting Brain Health

Finally, there's evidence to suggest that building muscle can have cognitive benefits as well. Studies have found that older adults with more muscle mass have better cognitive function and a lower risk of cognitive decline.

Check out this video of Dr Gabrielle Lyons articulating muscle and health and a digestable way.

So, if you're looking for a reason to start strength training, remember that building muscle isn't just about looking good in a swimsuit or lifting heavy weights. It can also have a major impact on your health and quality of life. Whether you're young or old, male or female, there are plenty of reasons to make muscle building a priority.