Category: Weight training

Hypertrophy, defined as the enlargement of cells, is most commonly understood in a fitness context as muscle growth, but it can also signal a serious medical condition. Understanding what are the signs of hypertrophy requires distinguishing between the healthy, desirable results of exercise and the concerning symptoms of a pathological issue, such as in the heart.

Over 75% of muscle tissue is water, highlighting the importance of hydration for performance. When pushing your physical limits, it's not uncommon to question, "Why do I feel weak and shaky when lifting weights?" This sensation is a common physiological response to stress, signaling that your body is working hard, but it can also point to underlying nutritional or recovery issues.

Research shows that genetic predispositions, including bone structure and muscle fiber type, can influence how easily muscles develop. So, **can you have naturally big shoulders**? While genetics set a foundational blueprint, the potential for building impressive shoulder size through consistent training is far greater than many people realize.

Extensive research, including a key study in *The American Journal of Medicine*, has shown that higher muscle mass is correlated with a lower risk of death in older adults, suggesting a significant link to longevity. This challenges the question: is having a lot of muscle unhealthy?