Learn about the benefits of strength training for women that go far above just looking good. Join me and high school weightlifting coach Michelle as we chat about strength training for women and what you need to know.
“Not wanting to lift weights for fear of gaining muscle is like not wanting to drive over the speed limit for fear of becoming a Nascar driver”.
It sounds insane when you put it that way, and yet so many women still believe that picking up a heavyweight will cause imminent growth.
But the truth is, I’ve been strength training for ten years now and a personal trainer for nine of them, I can assure you that strength training is what will give you everything you want when it comes to fitness goals. I look far better now after lifting so long than I ever did before.
The Myth Of Getting Too Big When It Comes To Strength Training For Women
I definitely remember telling my mom that I was never going to lift heavy because I didn’t want to get too big. Sigh.
So, I feel you ladies. When it comes to strength training for women, that myth is still at large.
However, those muscles that you on bodybuilders hard work. And years of dedication. It’s not just picking up weights that help that look. It’s a whole lifestyle swap.
Not only do women rarely have enough testosterone to get big in that way but I double you’re going to set out and train that strategically if it’s not your goal.
You will not get big and hulk-ish by lifting strength training.
Strength Training For Women And Confidence
One of the biggest things I’ve noted when it comes to strength training for women is that yes, it does give you a leaner look (being “toned is not a thing FYI). You will change your shape and aesthetically strength training can be wonderful.
Most people overlook that it is weight training that gives you the muscle definition most women strive for.
But the biggest perk is confidence.
Being strong and able to do something in the gym carries over into other areas of your life. This is easily the biggest perk I’ve noticed with myself and clients.
Strength Training & Weight Loss
If you want to lose weight and have a more flexible diet, strength training for women in addition to the four pillars is crucial. It is also the best way to keep weight off long term.
If more women started weight training, we would see more people with better metabolic rates, more enjoyment of food, and all-around more confidence.
While cardio is wonderful, it is much more calories in versus calorie out in terms of weight loss. Which makes it a never-ending cycle.
Strength training for women, however, helps you burn more calories when you’re not exercising and thus you can be more flexible with food.
The Benefits Of Strength Training For Women
The irony of strength training for women is that we think only aesthetically when in reality, strength training is so much more than that. Shifting your goals from aesthetics to performance not only gives you more to strive for but it also helps
- Improve day to day functions (it makes keeping up with kids easier!)
- Reduces risk of injury
- Help relieve stress and anxiety
- Prevents osteoporosis
- Boosts metabolism
- Helps you age gracefully
How To Start Lifting Weights
It’s never too late to start. Ever.
And getting started with weightlifting doesn’t mean you need to pick up the heaviest weight possible off the bat.
I will always tell people to find a style they love because it’s through that that you will stay consistent. And because exercise should be fun!
- Find A Workout Style You Enjoy
- Find a certified personal training to help with programming
- Embrace trying new styles
- Ask questions!
- Have a plan!
- Spend time at home learning the basics
- Take it slow- there’s no need for workouts six days per week at maximal effort
- Learn about the best exercises to master
Everyone starts somewhere. Don’t be scared to embrace something new like strength training. The benefits are pretty awesome.
Don't forget to pin these tips on Strength Training For Women
Covered In The Podcast
- What that "toned" look really comes from (8:5)
- Strength Training & Your Metabolism (9:48)
- Why you should change your goals (from aesthetics to performance) (11:05)
- Weight training for daily function (11:45)
- Injury & Osteoporosis (13:56)
- How bulky will I get? (16:28)
- How to start strength training (22:40)
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