Probably the single most important reason why women should lift weights is the prevention of Osteoporosis, but there are many other benefits to resistance training for women. The biggest concern I hear is, ” I don’t want to bulk up”. But women do not have to worry about bulking up unless they train very, very heavy and hard. And resistance training comes with so many other benefits like increased strength, faster metabolism and of course, better appearance. We all know that firm muscle looks better than flab!

As recent as 15 years ago, doctors were telling women that bone density loss was inevitable and that once lost, bone was gone forever. Today we know better. Research shows that resistance training as little as 2-3 times a week not only prevents bone loss but can result in bone cell production!

Female bodybuilders struggle very hard to gain muscle mass and “bulk up”. Do not fear adding muscle as the more muscle mass you have, the more calories you burn and lower body fat percentage decreases the risk of heart disease, Type II diabetes and many cancers. But my favorite reason why women should lift weights is to be stronger. The stronger you become physically, the stronger you become at everything. The stronger you become, the better you look and feel. Be a strong woman, lift weights!

For more information on resistance training for women ask a Personal Trainer at Club Sweat.

Dan

Certified Personal Trainer