Women And Weights

I am astonished that I still hear women say they do not want to lift weights because they are afraid to “bulk up”.  Just look at this picture of my beautiful friend Janet McGovern, and you will see the proof that muscles make curves.

I do not want to get your hopes up; you will never get a body like this by doing hundreds of reps with 3-pound dumbbells.  You do need to lift some serious weights.  I am sure Janet would be the first to tell you how hard she works.  In addition, this picture is of her in competition shape; where grueling workouts and stringent dieting are the norm.  Bulking up?  Most women simply do not have the testosterone to get huge.

However, you do not have to work out as hard as Janet to get the benefits (aesthetic, mental and physical) from lifting weights:

1. The more muscle you have the more calories you burn at rest.  This is why most men have an easier time losing body fat than women.
2. Weight training helps build stronger bones, helping to prevent osteoporosis.
3. You will live longer. According to Tufts University, two of the biomarkers of longevity are muscle mass and strength.
4. Women with a leaner (more muscular) body mass have a lower incidence of diabetes.
5. Yes, you will get a great butt and look better.
6. You will feel better and be able to do more.  Is this not the best reason of all; how could anyone not love feeling strong?