Strength training myths that women should ignore
You've probably heard a myth or two about women not doing strength training. Below we take a close look at 5 of these myths.
You may also have heard that Gwyneth Paltrow uses no more than 3 pounds in strength training. The idea behind this is that she wants lean muscles. Of course, you can also use heavier weights without building bulky muscles. Lifting weights will help you feel strong and powerful because you build healthy muscles. With heavier weights, you'll get a great looking look as you're shedding the fat over the muscles.
Cardio training is certainly an aid to fat burning and weight loss, but it's not your only tool. If you don't enjoy endurance training, you can and should use strength training to lose weight. The extra muscle mass you gain from strength training allows you to burn more calories. Keep in mind that a healthy diet is the single most important factor in weight loss. You may not be able to reach your desired weight just by changing your diet. Adjusting your diet can make a big difference in your weight.
Because everyone is unique, there's really no way to predict how any new diet or exercise plan will work for you. A plan that produces great changes in someone may not be very effective for you. Don't let this discourage you, but try different options until you find the plan that works for you. However, one thing applies to everyone: After a strenuous workout, you can also benefit from the so-called afterburn effect. Learn how to use the afterburn effect.
Despite some concerns that strength training might be dangerous for older women who have hit menopause, studies have shown that strength training can help women maintain bone density and increase muscle mass. In addition, strength training is known to reduce the symptoms of arthritis, diabetes, depression and back pain. Regular strength training is therefore more important than ever for older women.
There's really no reason why women should only do light weight circuit training while men do a full-on squat, pull-up, and bench press routine. Given the same exercises, a man is more likely to develop compact muscles while a woman develops an attractive athletic look. One of the main problems for women is the fact that most women do not dare to do strength training. The few women brave enough to do this are quickly viewed as abnormal. Free yourself and your fellow sufferers from this stereotype. Feel free to take advantage of all the strength training options available to men as a woman.
