Strong is Beautiful

Strength Training for Women

A strong woman is a powerful woman. What activity can help women stay strong, build healthy bones, and burn calories all at once? Strength training.

Strength training, also known as resistance or weight training, is a physical activity designed to improve muscular health by exercising specific muscle groups, including the use of free-weights, weight machines or your own body weight. You don't need a gym membership or fancy weight machines in order to exercise. Squatting, planks, push-ups or other exercises that require the use of your own body weight are effective and can be done at home.

Lifting weights may feel intimidating to some women, in fear of looking too bulky or overly muscular, however, this is a common misconception. Women can improve their muscle tone and strength and still maintain a feminine physique. Plus, exercising regularly helps to improve your endurance and stamina, which will support you in any other activities you love doing, such as hiking on the weekends with your best friends or practicing vinyasa yoga at your favorite studio.

Incorporating weight lifting into your lifestyle will not only benefit you now in the present moment but for many years to come. Age-related changes and inactivity gradually decrease your muscle mass and bone mass at the rate of 1% per year after age 40. Adopting a strength training program now is a vital component of overall wellness and fitness that will provide many health benefits, well beyond increasing muscle and bone mass.

Here are 10 Benefits of Strength Training:

1. Promotes fat loss.

2. Leads to better cardiovascular health.

3. Combats inflammation.

4. Protects bone health and muscle mass.

5. Strengthens mental health.

6. Increases metabolism.

7. Improves flexibility.

8. Elevates body image.

9. Improves cognitive function.

10. Boosts energy levels and improves mood.

Adding strength training to your routine will not only enhance your appearance, it will also help you feel better and live a longer, healthier, and happier life.