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'Cardio bunny' is a popular term used among gym goers to describe a woman who is constantly on the treadmill or elliptical, performing cardio for hours on end.

Of course, there is no one specific and correct way to exercise, as long as you're considering your safety. But, women can completely change their bodies by switching over from the endless cardio to primarily strength based workouts. If you're still on the fence, here are eight reasons to start incorporating heavyweights into your routine.

1. It's guaranteed—you WON'T get huge

Bodybuilders, male or female, train for years. They spend hours at the gym, eat a certain amount of macronutrients, and focus all of their energy on growing their muscles. It takes a lot of dedication, and won't happen accidentally or overnight.

Picking up a few weights will not cause you to look bulky. Women simply do not have enough testosterone in their bodies to achieve that massive bodybuilder look.

2. Weight-bearing exercises can prevent osteoporosis

As we age, we become susceptible to diseases like osteoporosis. Cardio, although great for your heart, can be quite tough on the joints. Especially on the knees. Strength training, on the other hand, preserves the integrity of your bones and joints. By incorporating weighted exercises, you can help prevent weak bones and joints in the future.

3. Weight training can give you a smaller waist

Women who are seeking that 'hour-glass' shape can turn to weight training to change their body composition. By building up your back muscles—the lattisimus dorsi—you can create the illusion of a smaller waist.

4. Weight training aids in weight-loss

If your main goal is weight loss, you should do equal amounts of cardio and weights. Cardio can help burn an excessive amount of fat, while strength training can build lean muscle mass underneath.

5. It can help change your mindset about food

Weight training allows you to see your food as fuel—a must if you're seeking to better your relationship with food and dieting. Exercise and diet work together, hand in hand, so find something that works for you, and helps you succeed in the gym.

6. Weight training workouts are time efficient

If you feel like there are never enough hours in a day, it's probably because you have a full workload, juggling a career, hobbies, or family life. A standard weight training session should last forty minutes to an hour. Which is perfect if it's just one of the many things to cross off on your daily 'to-do list.' Squeezing in some time for yourself can help improve your health is important no matter how hectic your schedule is.

7. Confidence boost

You'll feel stronger— and not just physically

Exercise releases endorphins that will have you feeling happier and more confident. Weight training gets you out of your comfort zone and helps you learn how to challenge yourself and face your fears head-on.

8. You'll have more energy

Overdoing it on the caffeine can be detrimental to your health in the long run. Strength training offers the perfect amount of intensity, so you're not exhausted after a workout. Instead, you'll feel energized and ready to take on the day.

Conclusion

The weight section has become more welcoming and inclusive within the last twenty years. For years, men have dominated the free weights section of the gym, but thanks for this shift in the fitness industry, more and more ladies are choosing to ditch the cardio and start lifting heavy—a must if you're trying to transform your body completely.

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