6 Strength Training Tips for Women
There’s a common misconception that women who incorporate strength training into their workouts will bulk up or develop a more masculine physique. As a result, some women choose to eschew lifting for cardio, when in reality, women should engage in both types of workouts.
Here are 6 ways that women can benefit from strength training twice a week:
Burn more fat and calories.
Muscle burns more calories and fat than a cardio workout, and this burn lasts all day. You can boost your metabolism for up to 36 hours after your workout when you do strength training.
Prevent osteoporosis/osteopenia
Resistance training can help prevent bone loss and even help build new bone. Weight training can help with coordination and balance, which leads to fewer falls and broken bones.
Decrease risk of injury
Resistance training builds stronger muscles, joints, and connective tissue. This helps the body stay in alignment, be more flexible, and absorb shock better.
Improve athletic performance
It’s important for athletes to build a solid base of strength. Then you can perform exercises that mimic your sport, as well as work on imbalances, mobility, agility, speed, and power.
Improve posture
Our tech-driven world means we can all use to improve our posture after hunching over a computer or a phone all day. Resistance training can help strengthen and support those muscles important for posture, including the core, upper back, and shoulders.
Slow down the aging process
In addition to slowing bone and muscle loss as we age, strength training can also positively affect the molecular, hormonal, and chemical change in our body, which can lower our risk of diseases. Studies have shown that strength training decreases the risk of heart disease by getting the heart working more efficiently and lowering the risk of diabetes by controlling blood sugars.
The key to success with strength training is proper form. Set up a session with a personal trainer at your club to make sure you are doing what’s right for your body and your goals.