**1.3 Health benefits of resistance training (RT)**

While it is still argued that cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is the most important measure for health, numerous other primary health-related physical fitness parameters exist and include; musculoskeletal fitness, body composition and flexibility [31]. Not only does resistance training (RT) improve on these parameters, but RT has also shown to enhance several other important aspects of physical and mental health [32]. Further, RT has also been associated with reduced low back pain, decreased arthritic discomfort, increased functional independence, improved mobility, enhanced functional status, enhanced movement control, and increased walking speed [32, 33]. What is especially important to note is that RT is equally, and in some cases superior, to other modes of physical activity, such as aerobic training, in its health-promoting benefits. Examples of this are RT's superior ability to increase metabolic rate, lean body mass and bone mineral density [33]. It is for these reasons that RT is recommended by numerous health organisations (e.g., American College of Sports Medicine, American Heart Association, American Association of Cardiovascular and Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, Surgeon General's Office) for inclusion into a comprehensive fitness programme that includes aerobic and flexibility exercise [34].
