5 Practical Reasons Why All Women Should Be Lifting Weights

Every woman should have strength training incorporated in their gym routine, here are 5 reasons why all women should be lifting weights!

5 Practical Reasons Why All Women Should Be Lifting Weights

When I started working out at a real gym when I was in college, I was terrified of weights. In my old gym the fancy elliptical, treadmills and other cardiovascular equipment was located on the first two floors. There was a weights room in the basement that was filled with an insane amount of barbells, free weights and other resistance machines.

I was always too scared to venture downstairs…I took a peek one time and all I saw were humongous men who were grunting really loudly and slamming weights on the floor when they were finished.

It was terrifying.

So I stayed on my cardiovascular machines secretly afraid of all that was happening in that basement and prayed I would never have to go down there.

Then I met my first personal trainer. He told me that in order to pull off the sexy drop dead shoulders I wanted for my strapless princess wedding gown, I would have to get over my fear of the weight room. He taught me how to use each machine, even those that I was sure was not meant for women to use. In short, I was hooked.

When I explain to my friends how awesome lifting is, I usually get a side eye or maybe even a chuckle because a lot of women generally do not lift weights. Here are 5 reasons why all women (including you) should be lifting weights several times a week.

Enhance Weight Loss Through Restorative Sleep and Caloric Burn

When you engage in resistance training, you’re not just burning calories during the workout itself; you’re setting your body up for an extended period of calorie expenditure. This phenomenon is known as the “afterburn effect,” or more scientifically, Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC). EPOC keeps your metabolic rate elevated for several hours after you’ve left the gym. What’s truly remarkable is that this process continues even while you’re asleep.

As your body works to repair and rebuild muscle tissue, it requires energy in the form of calories. So, effectively, you’re losing weight even during your restful hours. This is an efficient way to maximize your weight loss efforts with less active time invested.

Achieve Toned Muscles and Reduced Skin Laxity

Weight loss is an admirable goal, but it can come with aesthetic challenges, like excess skin, if not done thoughtfully. Resistance training can help you mitigate this issue by promoting muscle growth underneath the skin.

This helps to fill out the areas where fat used to reside, leading to a more toned and tight appearance. Simply losing weight through cardio and dietary changes won’t yield the same sculpted look for your arms, legs, and core. To achieve that “toned” appearance and avoid skin sagging, incorporating weight training is crucial.

Earn Respect and Credibility in the Fitness Community

The weightlifting section of a gym is often mistakenly seen as a “men’s domain,” but breaking this stereotype can earn you significant respect. Women who venture into the weights area and know their way around the equipment break barriers and challenge outdated norms. Your presence and competence can be empowering not only for you but also for other women who may feel intimidated. Plus, men who understand fitness will respect you for your skills and dedication, further erasing the dated notion that weightlifting is a ‘boys-only club.’

Boost Your Cardiovascular Efficiency and Cross-Training Performance

Contrary to popular belief, resistance training isn’t just for those who want to build muscle; it can also enhance your cardiovascular activities like running, swimming, or cycling. Strengthening your muscles through weightlifting can improve your stamina, speed, and overall performance in other athletic pursuits. This cross-training effect makes you a more well-rounded athlete. So whether you’re training for a marathon, a swim meet, or a bike tour, don’t overlook the contributions of resistance training to your regimen.

Serve as an Advocate and Inspiration for Women’s Strength Training

Your knowledge and dedication to weightlifting serve as an encouraging example for other women. Many women avoid the weights section because they’re intimidated by the predominantly male presence or fear becoming overly muscular.

Your visible success can shatter these misconceptions and inspire others to step out of their comfort zones. You become a living testament to the benefits of women’s strength training, motivating those who may be hesitant to broaden their fitness horizons.

By embracing resistance training, you’re not just lifting weights; you’re elevating your overall well-being, challenging societal norms, and inspiring others to do the same.

Here are some more fun fitness posts to check out before you go:

• Free Strength Training Printables For Women
• 7 Best Strength Training Exercises for Women Over 35
• Got Muscle? 9 Beginner Strength Training Routines For Women
• 10 Beginner Strength Training Arm Exercises
• 7 Beginner Strength Training Workouts For Women

Do you lift weights regularly? Are you a cardio bunny? if you do lift weights do you follow a plan or wing it?

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