We all know that exercise is good for us. It's common to see men working out and bulking up to extreme proportions, yet women are often discouraged from pursuing the more "aggressive" forms of workouts. Add in the fact that approximately 60% of women are not engaging in the recommended amount of daily activity, and you've got a bad situation on your hands. Today, we're going to dispell some of the major myths that keep women from joining strength training programs. Let's get started.
Myth: Weightlifting Will Make You "Look Bulky"
Unfortunately, society has attached a specific look to women and men. As a result of this stereotype, many women believe that lifting weights will make them gain weight and look unfeminine. The truth of the matter is: yes, you may build muscle that translates to weight gain, but that's a good thing! In fact, you'll probably end up looking leaner and more toned because muscle is denser than fat; you'll be gaining weight but will look slimmer and more fit.
The most important thing to remember is that "healthy" does not carry a specific weight or shape. If you feel better and like the way you look, you're doing strength training right!
Myth: Lifting Huge And Heavy Is Required
Exercise is personal. People who have been lifting for years may be extremely intimidating because they're squatting what looks like an unbelievable amount of weight -- but you can bet they didn't start out there. Most women see the best results with either heavy weights and low reps, or low weights and high reps; as long as you're going at your own pace, you'll be able to see and feel the difference over time.
Myth: You Can Be Too Old To Weight Train
Science supports us here. Resistance training is one of the best ways to prevent and reverse the loss of muscle in older adults -- including women. In fact, weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises can help women deal with the effects of osteoporosis, a condition that can become utterly debilitating as we age. Everyone can -- and should -- improve their muscle mass.
Ladies, don't let these rumors and this misinformation stop you from going after your workout dreams. From better sleep to improved flexibility and balance, the benefits of strength training programs are amazing! You deserve to cash in on them. Join a gym or fitness center, and discover how you can build muscle and improve your life through strength training programs today!