Final answer:
Free weights contribute to improved muscular strength and coordination, important for sports and daily activities. Resistance training engages fast glycolytic fibers and results in muscle hypertrophy, enhancing physical performance in various domains.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing the benefits of free weights and their effects on the body, we are often referring to the increase in both muscular strength and coordination. Muscular strength is the capability of a muscle to exert force during contraction, which is essential for various sports and daily activities. On the other hand, coordination is the ability to use different parts of the body together smoothly and efficiently. Free weights, as a form of resistance exercise, require the engagement of large amounts of fast glycolytic (FG) fibers. These muscle fibers are responsible for short, powerful movements and are a key component in sports that require bursts of strength like arm wrestling.
Furthermore, regular resistance training with free weights induces hypertrophy, or the enlargement of muscle fibers, leading to greater muscle mass and strength. This is achieved through the increase in formation of myofibrils within the muscles. This type of exercise is contrasted with aerobic exercises, which mainly improve muscular endurance and cardiovascular health. Therefore, individuals seeking to enhance their physical performance in both life and sports may include free weights in their exercise regimen to develop the muscular strength necessary to support their goals.