What's an activity that can help women stay strong, burn calories, and build healthy bones?
THE ANSWER: Strength training.
Now before you say "No, thanks", take some time to debunk the myths and learn the importance of strength training for women. MYTH #1 - Lifting Weights Makes Women Bulky
Without a high level of testosterone, a very specific diet and a killer workout routine you are not getting bulky, quite the opposite.
When women do strength training, the changes to their muscles are generally related to tone, strength, and endurance rather than size. The resulting look is firm, feminine and toned not bulky and masculine.
MYTH #2 - Cardio Is the Best Way To Burn Calories
Ummmm..... Not exactly, while cardio certainly does burn calories the burning effect stops when the exercise stops. When you strength train or lift weights not only do you burn during but you will have an "afterburn" effect that will continue on well after as your body goes into repair mode after the session.
A study in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that women who did an hour of strength training burned about 100 calories more the day following their workout than they did when they didn't lift weights.
A regular strength training program helps you reduce body fat and burn calories more efficiently, which can result in healthier weight loss.
MYTH #3 - Strength Training Just Builds Muscle
It does alot more than just build muscle.
As you age muscle mass decreases, you can counteract this effect through strength training.
The percentage of fat on your body increases as you get older if you don't do anything to replace the lean muscle you lose. Strength training helps preserve and enhance your muscle mass, regardless of your age.
BONUS for Women Because of hormonal changes that women experience as they get older, they naturally lose bone density, putting them at increased risk for developing osteoporosis. Routinely lifting weights slows bone deterioration and can help your bones grow stronger, maintain strength, and reduce your chance of developing osteoporosis or slow down its effects.
Now that you know the truth about Strength Training head over to an in-person or virtual online class with us and experience the benefits for yourself.
Fit2Last offers a number of strength classes such as Hustle Strength & Tone, HustleFit and Strong Nation so why not book in https://www.fit2lastfitness.com/book-a-class
OR Join our online Goal Crusher Membership and try one of our library of at home strength classes or workout sessions in your own time