A young lady performing reverse hyperextensions
Should women lift weights? Will lifting weights make a woman lose her femininity? Would't a step aerobics class be more suitable for a lady?
These are some of the questions that might possibly come to mind when we consider weight training for women. Many women ask the question on fitness forums and elsewhere: "will lifting weights make me bulky or manly"? They usually follow the question with a statement something like: "I don't want to get huge muscles like a male bodybuilder"
For the average woman or girl, getting huge muscles in a hurry will not be an issue, as one of the primary requirements to obtain that kind of development is missing in her system; testosterone, the male hormone.
While it's true that women do normally have some testosterone in their systems and men have a little bit of estrogen in their systems normally, the ratios are far different in the sexes.
While there will always be some exceptions to the rule, the vast majority of women will have considerable difficulty adding large amounts of muscle tissue to their feminine frames. In fact,experienced weight trainees of both sexes find the concern of these novice women weight trainees rather comical, as they know first hand just how tough it is to add real muscle tissue to one's frame.
What are the benefits of weight training for women?
Even a modest amount of muscle added to a woman's body will make it more efficient in terms of burning more calories ( muscle burns more calories than fat does), and will make for a firmer, more toned appearance.While weight training alone will not be a cure-all, it can certainly be a part of a well-rounded fitness plan that also includes a proper nutrition regimen, some Cardiovascular system training and some flexibility work.
Some added strength will help every woman be able to cope with the everyday chores and physical challenges that she may encounter, from lifting and carrying children and groceries, to soundly beating their male counterparts in a game of golf, tennis, or whatever sport they may enjoy.
While weight training is not the only form of strength training that can be used, it is one of the best forms for many reasons. These will be discussed and explored in upcoming articles, so please "stay tuned"
Comments