Weight Training for Women
Women Weight Training
Many women think that weight training is an exercise activity for men only. But this is simply not true. Weight training is not only a great way to get in shape, it also boosts metabolism to help lose weight. Also, being stronger makes everyday tasks easier for you, whether it is carrying a baby around on your hip, doing house work, shopping, DIY, working in an office or factory. Being stronger just makes things easier.
If you have been coming up with excuses to keep from starting an exercise program, or you are just wary of the idea of lifting heavy weights, here are some myths we’d like to debunk regarding weight training for women.
1. Lifting Weights Will Cause You to Bulk Up.
Men develop bulky muscles due to male hormones. Women will become more athletic, curvier, and look sexier, but will not bulk up.
2. It is Hard to Get Started in Strength Training.
Strength training is not hard to do, you can get light dumbbells to start with, which are easier to lift. It is important to lift weights with good form to avoid injuries. A few sessions with a personal trainer in the gym will set you straight. Free weights take up relatively little space and you can workout at home.
3. You are Too Old to Begin a Program.
We are never too old to start weight training. Many pensioners have succesfully taken up bodybuilding as a hobby in the past, so it is never too late. Studies have also shown that people that do some weight training live longer and healthier lives.
4. If you do Cardio, you do not have to Strength Train
Cardio builds your fitness levels, which is important. However, strength training boosts your metabolism and conditions your body to harder work, which reduces injury during any activity.
5. You are Lethargic and do not have the Energy to Lift Weights.
This is the biggest hurdle for many people. They think that they do not have the energy to lift weights. The truth is that lifting weights will actually give you more energy. Your body will learn to burn energy more efficiently and you will rarely feel sluggish and tired.
6. It is Intimidating to Lift Weights at a Public Gym Surrounded by Guys
This was the case about 20 years ago, but not any more. Gyms are family friendly places with both male and female assistants on hand to give some advice.
7. Strength Training is Not Feminine
This is the worse myth. All the sexiest models do some weight bearing exercise. Building healthy muscle is the best way to get attractive curves without piling on unhealthy fat. Athletic women are also found more desirable by a majority of men!
8. Lifting Weights Takes Too Much Time
Another myth of weight training. You can complete an effective workout in 20 minutes, and if using weights at home, then there is no time wasted travelling to and from the gym.
9. Weight Training is Too Expensive
Nonsense! A pair of dumbbells and a barbell from Argos will cost less than one month gym membership and last forever!
10. Weight Training is Not Fun.
And it will hurt! Hey, if you do not like crunches and lunges, then do not do them! There are plenty of other exercises either on machines, using resistance bands or kettlebells that will keep you more interested if you don’t like the idea of mat work. Forget the “No pain, no gain” slogan.
More Women's Workouts
