Thursday, September 28, 2017

MYTH: Lifting weights will make women bulky

Many come to this conclusion after seeing photos of female bodybuilders. But, it’s not just lifting weights that have made these women bulky, its also steroids, taking growth hormones and a very particular regimen that takes a ton of effort.

Ladies, lift weights, build strength, tone muscle, it’s all good for you and you will not turn into a bodybuilder.

I want to address a common misconception that often deters women from taking up weightlifting - the fear of becoming “bulky”. This fear is widespread and can be attributed to a variety of sources such as misleading information, societal pressures, and even marketing gimmicks. But I am here to assure you that lifting weights will not make women bulky. In fact, weightlifting can be one of the most effective ways for women to achieve a strong, toned, and healthy body.

Firstly, it is important to understand that building bulky muscles requires a specific type of training and diet that is not typical for most women. This type of training is geared towards bodybuilders and powerlifters who are aiming for size and strength gains. It involves high volume, high intensity workouts, and a calorie surplus diet. Women who train this way, with the goal of building significant muscle mass, also use supplements and steroids to achieve their desired physique. As a result, it is highly unlikely for women who lift weights without these specific goals to reach such a bulky physique.

In fact, lifting weights has numerous benefits for women that go beyond just physical appearance. For starters, weightlifting is one of the most effective ways to increase bone density, which is important for maintaining healthy bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Weightlifting also improves overall body composition, increasing lean muscle mass and reducing body fat. This leads to a toned and defined physique, not a bulky one. Additionally, weightlifting improves metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat.

Moreover, lifting weights can help improve overall health and wellbeing. It can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Weightlifting also increases cardiovascular endurance, which means that women who incorporate weight training into their exercise routine will have more stamina and energy during daily activities.

Another important aspect to consider is the mental benefits of weightlifting. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even depression, as it releases endorphins that promote a positive mood. Additionally, weightlifting can increase confidence and self-esteem, as women notice their physical abilities and strength improve over time.

So, what kind of weightlifting routine should women follow to achieve these benefits? Firstly, it is important to start with lighter weights and focus on perfecting form and technique to avoid injury. Women should aim to lift weights that challenge them, but not to the point of exhaustion. A good starting point is to lift weights 2-3 times a week, with rest days in between. Women should focus on compound movements, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, that work multiple muscle groups at once. This type of workout is more efficient and effective, as it targets several muscles at once, as opposed to isolation exercises like bicep curls and tricep extensions.

In conclusion, lifting weights will not make women bulky. In fact, it can be one of the most effective ways to achieve a strong, toned, and healthy body. Women who lift weights can enjoy numerous physical and mental benefits, including increased bone density, improved body composition, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and increased confidence. So, don’t let the fear of “bulking up” stop you from incorporating weightlifting into your exercise routine. Trust me, your body will thank you!

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