While women and weightlifting has become way more common and not as scoffed at within the last decade or so, there are still some common themes and attitudes around the idea of it.
There are so many more reasons why females should lift than reasons they shouldn’t.
Let’s start with one of the most common objections I hear from women who say they don’t want to lift weights.
“I don’t want to get too big, or bulky.”
First of all, unless you’re eating a huge surplus of calories, taking supplements and have been lifting weights for many years, this is just not going to happen. None of the women I see that have started a healthy weightlifting routine 3-5 days a week are walking around like Schwarzenegger.
I do hear women say, first and foremost, that they want to “get toned”.
Toned means actually seeing muscle, seeing muscle means building muscle, and that means you’ll need to lift heavy things! So, put down the 2.5 pound dumbbells!
Confidence & Self-Esteem
There’s nothing more empowering than lifting a heavy barbell off the ground, squatting with it on your back, or putting it over your head. The feeling of accomplishment is invigorating, and something that becomes all your own.
You set goals and get stronger, and when you start to crush those goals, it suddenly fuels a fire.
You realize that you are capable of some pretty amazing things! This carries over to the world outside the gym as well. We can do hard things ladies!
Bone Health
Osteoporosis affects so many women. Our bones need to be put under stress in order to keep growing. Without strength training and functional movement, they weaken.
We can be proactive and not only maintain but increase our bone density. This all happens when we lift heavy things! When we stop moving, we literally stop growing.
Weight Loss
Cardio is good; lifting weights is even better!
Put them together, and you are more likely to reach those aesthetics you’re looking for.
“I want to look good naked!”
Lift. The. Weights.
More muscle means a higher caloric burn. Muscle mass is achieved by….you guessed it, LIFTING HEAVY THINGS.
We aren’t getting any younger. But we can always be better!
And it’s never too late to start lifting. One of the best things you can if you’re entering menopause is lift. For all of the reasons listed above, but also for mental health. Aside from the physical benefits, lifting weights relieves stress, gives you an outlet, and creates time for yourself.
Figuring out a routine takes some time, but hop off the treadmill and grab a barbell! You won’t be sorry!